Cottbus is suffering from a water shortage: drinking water is now banned!

Cottbus is suffering from a water shortage: drinking water is now banned!

There is an alarming water shortage in Cottbus. Since June 24, 2025, a new regulation has prohibited the withdrawal of water from local waters during the day, i.e. between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. This measure was adopted due to the persistent drought, high temperatures and low rainfall. The city has issued a general order that applies to both private and authorized withdrawals by companies. There are even checks planned to uncover potential savings. In the current situation, the city is calling on Cottbus residents to save water so as not to further aggravate the tense situation. Further information available will soon be published on the City of Cottbus website.

But why is the situation so critical? At the Leibsch gauge, the water discharge has fallen below the crucial threshold of 4.5 cubic meters per second since the beginning of June. Even a monthly release of water from the dams in Spremberg and Saxony does not bring the hoped-for relief. Forecasts from the German Weather Service speak of persistently high temperatures and little precipitation. This will not only put a long-term strain on the landscape of Cottbus, but also the surrounding area. It is expected that the withdrawal ban will be expanded even further in the near future.

The causes of water shortages

The roots of our water problem lie in complex climatic conditions that lead to a reduced water supply in Germany. According to the Federal Environment Agency, the causes of the water shortage range from nitrate pollution, the effects of mining and the growing water demand in agricultural areas and metropolitan regions. To meet these challenges, various measures have already been taken, such as long-distance water pipeline systems and restrictions on water abstraction.

A specialist project called WADKlim has developed recommendations for action to make future water management sustainable. The focus is on improving water retention and increasing water efficiency. Future dry periods could further reduce the availability of water in many regions of Germany, which must be managed sustainably to ensure an equitable water supply.

The city of Cottbus reacts to the crisis

In this tense situation, the city of Cottbus is taking clear action. It has already activated the first stage of the low water concept, which led to a reduction in water discharges into several ditches. These forecasts and actions are intended not only to solve short-term problems, but also to promote long-term water management strategies. The focus is on pragmatic cooperation between different user groups and institutions.

Despite the difficult conditions, Cottbus is optimistic about the future. With targeted approaches and an awareness of the value of our water, Lusatia could perhaps soon breathe a sigh of relief again. A good hand in water management can mean a sustainable turnaround in this crisis.