Acute Water Shortage Strikes Skåne During Midsummer 2025
Skåne faces a significant water shortage affecting 500 residents during Midsummer celebrations.
Key Points
- • Water shortage affects several areas in Kristianstad municipality during Midsummer.
- • Consumption exceeded the capacity of Friseboda waterworks, leading to empty reservoirs.
- • Approximately 500 residents are impacted; water tanks to be provided for access.
- • A watering ban was enacted prior to Midsummer to encourage water conservation.
In a troubling turn of events, several areas within Kristianstad municipality in Skåne are facing a severe drinking water shortage, coinciding with the peak Midsummer celebrations. As reported on June 22, 2025, the crisis erupted on Midsummer's Day, when water consumption surpassed the capacity of the Friseboda waterworks, leading to empty reservoirs and affecting approximately 500 residents in the region.
Municipal officials have confirmed that due to the surge in demand, particularly influenced by summer tourism, the water supply has been strained. Henrik Wester, a spokesperson from the technical administration, stated, "The water reservoir is now empty, and the pipeline network has been depleted." In response to the emergency, local authorities are taking measures by shutting off the pipeline network during the night hours and installing water tanks in various locations, allowing residents to access drinking water during the day.
The municipality had previously implemented a watering ban before Midsummer, advising residents to conserve water in anticipation of the rising demand, which typically peaks during the summer months due to visitors in the area. According to officials, despite sufficient groundwater resources, the increased consumption during tourist season has created a significant mismatch in availability versus demand.
This situation highlights the growing challenges faced by municipalities in balancing water resources during peak tourist times while maintaining essential services to local residents. As Skåne navigates this water crisis, the municipal response will be closely watched as residents deal with the implications of this temporary but critical shortage.