Despite it not being a critical situation, it is a serious situation, says region director Stefan Hollmark, at a press conference where representatives from the region, the county administrative board and MSB participate. Sweden's geological survey (SGU) warned already in May of the risk of water shortage in several counties this summer, including Gotland. According to the authority's latest chart for week 24, the groundwater levels on Gotland are very low compared to the same period in previous years, both in large and small groundwater reservoirs. Under February to April, we received a third of the normal precipitation. The groundwater levels are now like they usually are in August, says Patric Ramberg, technical director at the region.
Lowering the pressure
Since mid-April, a ban on watering has been in effect on the entire island. The region is now taking further measures to secure drinking water this summer – a high-intensity period with many visitors expected to be tough. The first measure is a pressure reduction of the water starting today for Visby, Västerhejde, Vibble, Tofta, Väskinde and Brissund. According to Patric Ramberg, the pressure reduction will take place in several stages and will therefore not be as noticeable as in 2016.
There are risks, but they are calculated, he says.
No tourist restrictions
The region is also urging all residents to do what they can to save water and emphasizes the importance of the information also reaching visitors. On a question of whether it can be considered to restrict tourism on the island in a worst-case scenario, the region director Stefan Hollmark replies that no discussion has been held on the matter. Groundwater is the term for the water that is under the ground or in the bedrock. It is formed by precipitation in the form of rain or as meltwater. About half of the drinking water in Sweden comes from groundwater reservoirs. The period with the most recorded bottom records is 1976–1977, followed by 2016–2019 and then 1996–1997.
Källa: Sveriges geologiska undersökning
