Hautes-Pyrénées: Enhanced water usage alert in the Gaves basin

A prefectural order imposes restrictions due to declining flow rates in the Gave de Pau and reaching the enhanced alert threshold.

Clear blue sky over a wide, shallow riverbed in the Pyrenees, with dry, cracked earth visible on the banks. The water flow is visibly reduced. The overall scene conveys a sense of drought and water scarcity.
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Clear blue sky over a wide, shallow riverbed in the Pyrenees, with dry, cracked earth visible on the banks. The water flow is visibly reduced. The overall scene conveys a sense of drought and water scarcity.

A prefectural order has placed the Gaves basin in the Hautes-Pyrénées under an enhanced alert for surface water usage, due to declining flow rates.

The prefecture of Hautes-Pyrénées issued an order, dated September 30, 2026, establishing an enhanced alert situation for the Gaves basin. This measure temporarily regulates surface water and accompanying groundwater withdrawals.
This decision follows the observation of reduced flow rates in the Gave de Pau and the reaching of the enhanced alert threshold, as defined by the interdepartmental framework order. The need to maintain a minimum flow for public health and the protection of fish populations was emphasized.
Prefectural Order No. 65-2026-09-30-00001 repeals and replaces the previous order from July 22, 2026, which had placed the sector under a vigilance status. It calls for necessary solidarity among water users.
Based on information from the official source: Mairie de Lourdes (30/09/2026)