Lanzarote Extends Water Emergency Until February 2027 as Multi-Million Euro Infrastructure Projects Move Forward
Lanzarote’s water emergency has officially been extended for another six months, meaning the current emergency measures will now remain in place until 4 February 2027.
The decision was approved by the General Assembly of the Island Water Council (Consejo Insular de Aguas) and is intended to allow authorities to continue fast-tracking vital projects aimed at improving the island’s water supply network and reducing the risk of future shortages.
Why has the water emergency been extended?
The emergency declaration is not because residents or tourists are expected to lose access to drinking water, but because it gives the Cabildo and water authorities greater flexibility to speed up essential improvement works.
Without emergency status, many public infrastructure projects would face significantly longer administrative procedures before construction could begin. The extension allows work to continue without those delays while long-term improvements are carried out.
More than €6.4 million approved for water projects
Alongside the extension, authorities approved over €6.4 million worth of projects designed to strengthen Lanzarote’s water infrastructure.
The investment includes:
- Replacing ageing water supply pipelines across Lanzarote and La Graciosa.
- Reducing water losses caused by leaks in the network.
- Improving the overall efficiency of the island’s water distribution system.
- Upgrading urban rainwater drainage in parts of Arrecife to help reduce flooding during heavy rainfall.
- Cleaning and improving several barrancos (ravines) in Haría to increase drainage capacity during storms.
- Continuing work on the new Lanzarote Hydrological Plan covering 2027–2033.
Political disagreement over the extension
Although the majority supported extending the emergency, the vote was not unanimous.
Representatives from the PSOE, along with the municipalities of Tías and San Bartolomé, voted against the extension, while Yaiza abstained. The remaining members backed the proposal, allowing it to pass comfortably.
What does this mean for tourists?
For holidaymakers visiting Lanzarote, there is no immediate change.
Hotels, apartments, restaurants and tourist attractions are expected to continue operating as normal. Visitors can continue to use tap water for washing, showering and everyday purposes, while following the usual advice regarding drinking tap water depending on their accommodation and personal preference.
The extension is primarily an administrative measure that allows authorities to accelerate improvements to the island’s water infrastructure rather than introducing new restrictions on visitors.
What does it mean for residents?
For residents, the extension signals that the Cabildo continues to prioritise investment in the island’s ageing water network.
Over recent years, Lanzarote has experienced ongoing challenges including:
- Population growth.
- Increasing tourism demand.
- Ageing infrastructure.
- Water losses through leaks.
- Heavy reliance on desalination.
Officials say the latest projects are designed to improve reliability, reduce waste and strengthen the island’s long-term water security.
Looking ahead
Cabildo President Oswaldo Betancort has expressed hope that the current extension will be the final one, with the aim of ending the emergency status in February 2027once the most urgent projects are underway or completed. However, that will depend on the progress of the infrastructure works and the overall condition of Lanzarote’s water network
