Drought in Brittany: persistent threat to drinking water

At the end of October 2026, water resources in Finistère are becoming scarce despite calls to conserve them, while Côtes-d'Armor fears water cuts. October rains, slightly above average after four deficit months, are insufficient to replenish reserves, and restrictions constrain grave maintenance in Morlaix and then Rennes during All Saints' Day. Despite the rains from Storm Austen, Brittany remains at critical levels, and a new water treatment plant is announced in Pencran to secure drinking water. In early November, falling river levels cause four shells to reappear at the Saint-Barthélémy dam in Ploufragan. The risk of drinking water shortage is highlighted nationally, Brest expresses concern, and prefects may deploy the Orsec plan.