The dry season began on April 1, 2025, under relatively dry conditions. The discharge in the major rivers, the Rhine and the Meuse, was low during this period.
Although the past months were mostly sunny and drier than normal, several variable periods with precipitation ensured that water management remained manageable. This is partly thanks to the measures taken through the collaboration within the Smart Water Management program.
Regional Differences Visible
Regionally, there are clear differences. Particularly in the west of the Netherlands, the precipitation deficit is greatest. For water managers, the situation has remained manageable so far without national bottlenecks.
Where necessary, measures have been taken. For instance, we raised the water level in the IJsselmeer area. And the water boards, where necessary, have raised levels and imposed extraction bans to retain water as much as possible.
Smart Water Management Bears Fruit
Despite the precipitation deficit being in the category of the 5% driest years since measurements began, major problems have so far been avoided. This is partly due to the efforts of Smart Water Management .
Within this partnership, Rijkswaterstaat, 21 water boards, and other water partners work intensively together every day to make the Netherlands more resilient to extreme weather such as drought.
Regular management has been expanded in recent years, allowing water systems to handle more before serious drought occurs.
Thanks to the sharing of real-time data on (ground)water levels, evaporation, and river inflow, water managers can anticipate drought more quickly and effectively. By collaborating intensively and providing insight into each others data, water is distributed purposefully to areas where the need is greatest. Retaining water is also better aligned with current conditions.
This approach makes it possible to manage drought more effectively and use scarce freshwater supplies efficiently.
Drought Monitor
The most recent drought monitor 2025 is online with current information about the drought situation. Especially for agencies involved in water management, so they can take measures to retain or distribute water to combat drought.
The drought monitor is a product of the National Coordination Committee Water Distribution of the Water Management Center Netherlands (WMCN-LCW) with contributions from the water boards, Rijkswaterstaat, the KNMI, the provinces, the Ministry of LVVN, and Vewin.