For almost two years, the Pyrénées-Orientales have been experiencing extreme drought, just like neighboring Catalonia which has just declared a state of emergency. The prefecture of this very touristy department (40% of economic activity) has extended the measures restricting the use of water until the beginning of April.
“It’s terrifying, in fifty years, I have never experienced such a situation,” says Christian Sarran, director of the Font Romeu tourist office.