Water restrictions possible in parts of Istria as heatwave sends demand soaring

BUZET, 5 August 2026 (Hina) – Water authorities in parts of Istria have issued a final warning to residents to immediately reduce non-essential water use, saying restrictions may soon be introduced if consumption does not fall.

According to Istarski vodovod i odvodnja Buzet, prolonged dry weather and high summer temperatures have led to an extreme increase in water consumption in recent days. The sharp rise is being driven mainly by intensive watering of lawns, gardens and other green areas, as well as washing courtyards.

The utility stressed that the issue is not a shortage of water at the source, but rather the limits of the existing distribution network. Smaller pipelines are unable to deliver enough water to all users at the same time when demand reaches exceptionally high levels.

Residents are being urged to reduce irrigation and avoid unnecessary outdoor water use to ensure there is sufficient water for essential daily needs.

The appeal applies to the municipalities of Vižinada, Kaštelir-Labinci, Višnjan and Tinjan, as well as the settlements of Baderna and Žbandaj in the City of Poreč, and Barat in the Municipality of Kanfanar.

The utility also warned that reduced pressure in the network could cause temporary water discolouration for some consumers. Anyone experiencing this is advised to contact the water company’s duty dispatcher.

Officials described the announcement as the last warning before the possible introduction of first-stage water restrictions. They said the current level of consumption has pushed the system close to its operational limits and called on residents to use water responsibly during the ongoing heatwave.

Meanwhile, Vodovod Pula–Labin, which supplies the Pula and Labin areas and parts of central Istria, said water supply in its network remains normal and no restrictions are currently planned.