Élodie Degiovanni, the prefect of Drôme, still hoped a few weeks ago, during a field visit, not to have to take this type of measure. But the situation is such that she signed a series of decrees published on Wednesday. Almost the entire department goes to Crisis levelthe maximum drought alert level, except for the northernmost basin, that of Valloire, which remains on heightened alert.
This means that the restrictions on the use of water are reinforced. It is now forbidden for individuals to water their vegetable garden, wash their car, fill their swimming pool. Public authorities can no longer water gardens or operate open circuit public fountains. The use of water for farmers becomes very limited.
In Ardèche, the Ouvèze basin is currently the only one at Crisis level.