Brandenburg has imposed strict water usage regulations, including rationing and bans, due to ongoing drought conditions and declining water levels.

In Brandenburg, local authorities have introduced stringent water usage restrictions to combat the effects of prolonged drought and declining groundwater levels. Residents, including members of the ‘Sommerfreude 2’ gardening association in Brandenburg an der Havel, are now only permitted to water their gardens between 6 PM and 8 AM. The measures, which will remain in effect until August 31, aim to preserve dwindling water resources as temperatures soar to nearly 40 degrees Celsius.

The city has prohibited the extraction of water from surface sources such as rivers, lakes, ponds, and ditches. Mayor Michael Müller highlighted the severity of the situation, pointing to visibly reduced water levels in the Havel River as evidence of the ongoing crisis. Despite the greenery in some areas, Müller emphasized that appearances can be deceptive, with many trees already suffering from dehydration. Other cities and counties, including Potsdam and Munich, have implemented similar restrictions, with violations potentially resulting in fines of up to €50,000.

Landschaftsgärtner Andrea Kahn, tasked with maintaining greenery in Brandenburg, explained the challenges posed by the drought. To keep trees alive, she uses up to 130 liters of water per tree, delivered through specialized drainage systems. Exceptions have been made for critical landscaping efforts, such as watering trees near the town hall during the day. The city continues to monitor water levels closely, with officials warning that the ongoing climate crisis and increased evaporation rates are exacerbating the situation. Residents have expressed understanding of the measures, acknowledging the global nature of water scarcity.