Netherlands officially declares water shortage

The Netherlands has officially declared a water shortage amid an unusually hot period and ongoing drought, RTL reports.

According to the broadcaster, the amount of water entering the country has decreased due to a lack of rainfall and falling water levels in rivers, particularly the Rhine. At the same time, demand for water continues to rise. Dry and hot conditions are expected to persist in the coming weeks.

The Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management, however, assured residents that the measures being taken will not affect the supply of drinking water.

“Drinking water is available and will continue to be available to the public,” a ministry spokesperson said.