Drought: Water restrictions extended until December 31 in the Rhône

The prefecture maintains several alert levels, from crisis to reinforced alert, for municipalities in the department and the Lyon metropolitan area.

Generic image of a dry riverbed with cracked earth and a blurred town hall facade in the background.
AI

Generic image of a dry riverbed with cracked earth and a blurred town hall facade in the background.

The Rhône Prefecture has decided to extend water restriction measures related to drought until December 31, 2026, maintaining different alert levels across the department and the metropolis of Lyon.

Despite a relative improvement in river flows, they remain abnormally low for the season. The Val de Saône remains in a crisis situation for groundwater and surface water, imposing strict prohibitions for individuals: watering lawns and kitchen gardens is forbidden between 9 am and 8 pm, and filling swimming pools and washing vehicles are prohibited.
The East of Lyon moves to a drought alert level. Restrictions include prohibiting the watering of lawns and kitchen gardens between 10 am and 6 pm, and prohibiting the filling of swimming pools, except for initial filling. Vehicle washing is permitted at professional facilities.
The rest of the territory is placed under reinforced alert. Restrictions concern watering lawns, flowerbeds, and potted plants, as well as kitchen gardens between 9 am and 8 pm. Drip irrigation is prohibited between 10 am and 6 pm, and swimming pool filling is restricted.
The summer of 2026 was exceptional, with July being the hottest month since 1947 and a significant rainfall deficit. These conditions have led to a deterioration of surface water quality and a continuous drop in water tables.
The prefecture calls for the adoption of daily actions to reduce water consumption and preserve this vital resource, beyond strict adherence to the guidelines.
Based on information from the official source: Eau du Grand Lyon (30/10/2026)