Drought Threatens Irrigation in Northern Italy as Water Reserves Dwindle

On July 11, 2026, the Po River District Basin Authority (ADBPO) warned that a severe drought is critically threatening irrigation in northern Italy. Local officials reported that water reserves are depleting rapidly, with available stocks expected to run out in just ten days without rainfall.

Critical Water Shortages in Northern Italy

According to the ADBPO, the situation is described as 'extremely critical.' The Po River, the primary water source for irrigation in the region, is drying up, leading to a significant reduction in flow. Saltwater intrusion from the Adriatic Sea is pushing upstream, affecting irrigation fields by extending 20 to 25 kilometers (12.5 to 15.5 miles) inland.

This alarming trend poses a dual threat: the immediate impact on agricultural irrigation and potential long-term ecological damage. The ADBPO indicated that if the current irrigation rates continue without rainfall, the water supply will be exhausted, exacerbating the crisis.

State of Emergency in Affected Regions

The Veneto region, located in northeastern Italy where the Po River meets the Adriatic, declared a state of emergency at the beginning of July due to the ongoing drought. In the northwestern region of Piedmont, an emergency meeting is scheduled for next Monday to discuss possible measures to increase water releases to maintain flow in the Po River.

Piedmont has been one of the hardest-hit areas in Italy, experiencing extreme heat waves that have contributed to the water crisis. Reports indicate that water levels in major lakes, such as Lake Maggiore and Lake Como, have dropped significantly, with Lake Maggiore's fill rate falling by 17% (33 centimeters or 13 inches) within a week and Lake Como declining by 15%.

Long-term Implications of the Drought

The implications of this drought extend beyond immediate irrigation concerns. The potential for ecosystem disruption is considerable, with local wildlife and vegetation at risk due to altered water availability. The ADBPO has emphasized the need for immediate action to mitigate the effects of the drought and safeguard the region's agricultural future.

• Emergency declaration: Veneto region, July 2026
• Saltwater intrusion: 20-25 kilometers inland
• Lake Maggiore fill rate drop: 17% in one week
• Lake Como fill rate drop: 15%

As the drought continues to threaten irrigation in northern Italy, local authorities and farmers are left to grapple with the potential fallout from this environmental crisis.