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Groundwater levels in France continue to drop as summer progresses, with many now at below-average levels for the period. 

A monthly study of groundwater levels shows that as of July 1, 39% are at lower-than-average levels, more than double the number at the same point last year (17%).

The study, by the Bureau de recherches géologiques et minières (BRGM), also found that 87% of water tables are decreasing in France, compared to 75% in May. 

In particular, areas with below-average groundwater levels include the north and east of France, Brittany and Normandy, much of the centre and south, and areas near the eastern Spanish border. 

Only areas south and east of the capital, parts of Normandy and Hauts-de-France, and south-east of Lyon had moderately high water table levels. 

The map below shows the situation as of July 1. 

In addition, the published an interactive map detailing the difference in situation in July 2024 and July 2024. You can find the full study here. 

Further drops expected 

The situation is likely to worsen over the summer, with high temperatures expected to further dry out the soil.

Scientists are hopeful that the water basins with above-average levels will remain unimpacted throughout the summer, even if further heatwaves hit France. 

However, basins already facing a shortage are at risk of further drying out, particularly in the north and near the Spanish border, unless significant rainfall occurs (summer rains are usually not strong enough to penetrate below soil levels). 

Elsewhere, water table levels will largely depend on water demand, leading many departments to warn residents about water usage.

Drought alerts – already in place across several departments – are likely to increase and remain in place until autumn.