Danish authorities warn of water shortages amid heatwave

Denmark’s water utilities and industry association DANVA are urging residents to curb usage as high demand during the heatwave risks local shortages.

With the country gripped by hot, humid weather, officials warn that sustained consumption could strain supplies. Several water providers, including Hofor, which serves around one million customers in the Copenhagen area, are calling for conservation measures.

To reduce waste, authorities advise against filling large paddling pools, noting that the biggest models can consume as much water as one person uses in six months. Instead, families are encouraged to visit beaches or public harbour baths.

For gardening, residents should use watering cans rather than hoses, which can use up to 12 litres per minute. Watering should be done in the early morning or evening to minimise evaporation, and lawns should be left unwatered, as grass recovers quickly after rain. Collecting rainwater in barrels is also recommended.

Indoors, turning off taps while soaping hands or brushing teeth can save around five litres per minute. Shorter showers—even by just one minute—save roughly ten litres, while using eco programmes on washing machines and dishwashers further reduces consumption.

“It’s a small change, but if nearly a million people do it, the impact is significant,” said Anne Scherfig, Hofor’s water planning manager.