Current water situation

Current water situation 1 July 2026

Gotland is still experiencing water shortage. This assessment is based on groundwater and surface water levels, which remain lower than normal after a long period with very little rainfall.

Very little rain and high evaporation

Only about 0.3 millimetres of rain has fallen since last week. So far in 2026, Gotland has received around 30% less rainfall than normal. At the same time, the warm weather has caused high evaporation. As a result, both groundwater levels and surface water sources remain below normal.

The production of drinking water is working as normal, and the quality of the drinking water remains good.

How does the water shortage affect people using the public water?

To reduce water use and secure the drinking water supply during the summer, Region Gotland has introduced several measures. These measures help save water and protect the water resources that are available.

Reduced water pressure

Since 22 June, Region Gotland has reduced the water pressure in two steps in the area east of the ferry route in Visby.

Lower water pressure is a planned measure to reduce water use and limit water loss if leaks occur during the period of water shortage.

The pressure is reduced in a controlled way, in small steps. The pressure always remains high enough to prevent negative pressure in the water pipes. This means the quality of the drinking water is not affected.

What will I notice?

Step 1
You will not notice any difference when using taps or showers.

Step 2
The water pressure is reduced a little more, but most households will still not notice any difference.

Water restriction

Until September 1, public drinking water may only be used for essential needs in homes and businesses, such as:

• Personal hygiene
• Cooking and drinking
• Washing clothes and dishes

You must not use municipal drinking water for:

• Watering gardens with a hose or sprinkler
• Washing vehicles with a hose or pressure washer
• Cleaning patios, paving stones or similar outdoor surfaces
• Filling swimming pools or hot tubs

See which areas are covered by the water use restrictions on the Water use restrictions page.