Region Gotland has issued an urgent warning about a critical water shortage affecting Visby and surrounding areas. According to reports from March 18, 2026, water consumption in the region has exceeded production capacity, raising concerns that water supplies could be depleted within three days if current usage patterns continue.
The situation represents the latest in a series of water-related challenges facing Gotland residents. Earlier this year, authorities warned of significant risk for water shortages this summer unless substantial rainfall occurs. In December, tens of thousands of Gotland residents were forced to boil their water due to high levels of plankton organisms in the municipal water supply.
several coinciding and unfortunate circumstances that occurred simultaneously, causing us to reach critical levels in our water reserves
Susanne Pettersson, senior expert in water and waste management at Region Gotland, described the situation as "several coinciding and unfortunate circumstances that occurred simultaneously, causing us to reach critical levels in our water reserves." Pettersson confirmed that the region does not have full water reserves and continues to urge residents to exercise water conservation measures.
Residents are being asked to reduce water consumption ahead of the summer season, adding to existing challenges including low groundwater levels and ongoing conservation requirements.