Barcelona declares drought emergency, with big fines for breaking water rules

After months of warnings, authorities in Catalonia have declared a drought emergency. The region is in the midst of the worst drought since records began. From february 2024 , 80% of the Catalan population, including Barcelona, is under strict water restrictions. Washing a car, watering a garden or filling a swimming pool could result in fines of up to €50. If a citizen in Barcelona committed a serious 'water offence', they could be fined up to €3,000. Things like washing a car are allowed with recycled water. The rules will apply to six million people in Barcelona and the 201 surrounding municipalities in northeastern Spain.