Monaco enters drought vigilance phase as Government calls for responsible water use

The Government of the Principality of Monaco has activated the “vigilance” level of its drought management plan, a preventive measure aimed at raising awareness among residents, businesses and economic operators about the importance of more sustainable water consumption.

The decision comes as the region faces a significant reduction in rainfall. Since the beginning of the year, precipitation levels recorded in Monaco have been more than 50% below seasonal averages, creating a growing water shortage situation.

At this stage, the vigilance level does not introduce any mandatory restrictions on water use. Instead, it encourages collective responsibility and the adoption of good practices to help preserve water resources and prevent the situation from worsening.

The first stage of Monaco’s drought management plan

The vigilance level represents the first step in the drought response system established by the Monaco Government.

Its main objective is to anticipate potential water shortages by informing users and encouraging more efficient consumption before stricter measures become necessary.

According to the Government, acting at this stage will help promote collective awareness and protect water availability over the long term.

Recommendations for residents

Every individual can contribute to reducing water waste through simple everyday actions.

The main recommendations for households include:

• using washing machines and dishwashers only when fully loaded;
• reducing garden watering;
• choosing water-efficient equipment and appliances;
• avoiding unnecessary water consumption;
• adopting more sustainable daily habits.

Small actions, when adopted by many people, can have a significant impact on preserving water resources.

Guidance for businesses and professionals

Alongside public awareness efforts, the Government has also informed professional sectors with significant water consumption, encouraging them to implement measures adapted to their activities.

Recommended actions include:

• postponing, whenever possible, swimming pool filling and draining operations;
• using more water-efficient equipment and systems;
• rescheduling certain operations involving water discharge;
• recycling cleaning water whenever operational conditions allow.

The objective is to reduce water consumption while maintaining normal economic activities.

Protecting water resources is a shared responsibility

Sustainable water management is a collective challenge involving residents, businesses and public authorities.

The Monaco Government will continue to closely monitor developments in the water and weather situation and will adjust its response progressively according to future needs.

The current vigilance phase represents a preventive and responsible approach: protecting water today means ensuring greater environmental security for Monaco and the wider French Riviera region in the future.