Drought hits Venarey-les-Laumes

The small town of Venarey-les-Laumes in Côte-d'Or is struggling with severe water shortages caused by repeated heatwaves and a long-lasting drought. The situation has become so dire that the mayor has announced planned water cuts.

Water sources have drastically declined

Venarey-les-Laumes relies on two historical wells that draw water from an underground aquifer. However, these wells have seen their water levels drop dramatically—from 5.50 meters to just 80 centimeters in one well and completely dry in the other—over the course of a year.

Emergency measures are being taken

To address the crisis, the mayor restored a third well that had been unused until now. While this well can provide about 180 cubic meters of water per day, it is not enough for the town’s 2,750 residents. As a result, the town has started using water tankers to transport potable water from nearby areas.

Nearby towns are affected too

Mussy-la-Fosse, a nearby village that usually draws water from a spring, has also seen its source nearly dry up. However, its small population of 48 households means it is not yet facing a complete water shortage. Ménétreux-le-Pitois, another neighboring commune, relies entirely on Venarey-les-Laumes for its water supply and has no alternative sources.

Residents are urged to conserve water

The mayor has asked residents to reduce water usage by spacing out showers and doing laundry only when the washing machine is full. These efforts have led to a noticeable decrease in water consumption, as measured by the town’s two water meters.

Local and regional support is emerging

Other nearby communes, such as Baigneux-les-Juifs, have offered assistance, and a meeting with the Regional Health Agency is planned to discuss further solutions. Despite the challenges, local officials remain hopeful that the situation can be managed in the short term.