Extreme weather events caused by climate change and global warming are threatening world-famous tourist destinations. Most recently, Agrigento, a holiday paradise located on a hill on Sicily Island in Italy, announced to tourists, "Don't come, we don't have enough water."
Agrigento, located on a hill on Sicily Island, is a holiday paradise for tourists visiting Sicily. Beneath the archaeological structures and ruins of the Valley of the Temples lies an ancient labyrinth-like aqueduct system that still captures water today. However, for months, the aqueduct and other modern systems have been so dry that small hotels and guesthouses in the city and nearby coastal areas have had to turn tourists away. According to CNN, the hotels do not have enough water to guarantee a flushing toilet or a shower after a hot day.
Restrictions began in February
Sicily started implementing water restrictions in February when the region declared a state of emergency amid relentless drought. This has worsened the scarcity affecting tourism and agriculture, two sectors vital to Sicily's economy.
Water restrictions are in place for over 1 million people across 93 areas. Some have had to reduce water consumption by up to 45%, meaning taps do not flow according to schedule and most places have their water supply completely cut off overnight. Having enough drinking water depends on organization throughout the day.
No help from the mainland
Tourists on TripAdvisor and other travel forums are asking whether it's worth visiting the affected areas of Sicily. Hotels are warning their guests about potential shortages and helping them rebook in other parts of the island where restrictions are less severe or not in effect.
First wildfires, now a water crisis
The Sicilian regional government has requested subsidies from Rome to bring water from the mainland, but there is still no concrete plan to assist the island. Italy's Tourism Minister Diana Santanchè stated in April that Sicily should try to extend its tourism season and avoid focusing solely on the summer months when water issues worsen. Last year, severe wildfires forced the evacuation of tourists or postponement of their visits. Now, water shortages triggered by drought are another cause for concern.
4o