The agency began to publish a weekly report on the effects of the heat wave in the country, where the ban on the use of water for non-priority purposes remains in force.

According to the report, for the metropolitan area, which includes Montevideo and surrounding areas, the supply will last until the end of April.

But in localities such as Durazno, Sarandí del Yí, Minas and Solís de Matojo, the current availability barely covers the needs for March.

The Atlántida system (to the east), which is served by the Laguna del Cisne and Montevideo, reports continued low water levels. Florida, northwest of here, would have a 45-day supply, according to OSE.

This week the government extended financial relief measures for producers affected by drought, for whom the agricultural emergency is in force in the country.

jrr/jav/ro/ool.