Persistent drought in northern Valais (level 4/5)
Unchanged since the first report last verified 18:13 CEST
Summary
Northern Valais is experiencing persistent drought at warning level 4 of 5. Water use and open fires must be handled with caution.
What hazard threatens
The prolonged drought endangers the drinking-water supply and agriculture in northern Valais and markedly raises the risk of forest and field fires.
Context & protective measures
Background: dry spells are becoming more frequent and longer in Switzerland. Prolonged drought lowers groundwater and spring levels, strains the drinking-water supply of smaller municipalities and agriculture, and markedly increases the risk of forest and field fires. The FOEN rates the situation by region across several warning levels.
Recommendation
The likelihood of occurrence is low, but the potential impact is high. Use drinking water sparingly, observe municipal water-use restrictions and fire bans, and avoid open fires outdoors and barbecuing in the forest. Keep a drinking-water reserve.
What to do now
Follow the guidance of your municipality and the authorities on water use and fire prevention, and prepare using the guide on protection in heat and drought.
Risk matrix
Event location
- Coordinates · WGS84
- 46.3155° N, 7.5488° E
- 46°18′55.8″ N 7°32′55.5″ E