Due to the ongoing heat and drought, Munich has officially introduced restrictions on water usage for the first time in its history. The corresponding order from the city's climate department came into effect on July 14 and will remain in place until August 1, with the possibility of extension if necessary. According to the new rules, residents are prohibited from filling private pools and other bathing facilities, as well as operating decorative fountains. From 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, watering gardens, private lawns, and green areas is not allowed. Exceptions are made for agricultural land, forests, cemeteries, public areas, and sports fields. Additionally, washing cars outside of specialized car washes is prohibited, as is drawing water from rivers, streams, and lakes within the city limits. Owners of private wells are also prohibited from using this water to fill pools, water lawns, and wash cars. Violations of the established restrictions may result in fines of up to **€50,000**. As noted by a representative of the municipal utilities (SWM), such citywide bans have not been implemented in the entire modern history of Munich's water supply. Acting Mayor Dominik Krause once again urged residents to conserve water to allow groundwater levels to recover. According to him, the expected rainfall this week will not be sufficient to replenish these reserves. The city leader also instructed the development of a long-term water supply strategy in case of future droughts. Similar water-saving measures have already been implemented in the suburbs of Munich, including Unterhaching, Garching, Neubiberg, and Unterföhring. Water usage restrictions are already in effect in other regions of Germany, including Hanover, Potsdam, several districts of Baden-Württemberg, and the federal state of North Rhine-Westphalia. Authorities believe such measures are becoming necessary due to increasingly frequent periods of extreme heat and drought.