Alert: Water Crisis Declared by Uruguayan Government (June 21, 2023)
Location: Montevideo, Uruguay
Event: The Uruguayan government declared a water crisis in the metropolitan area of Montevideo effective June 19, 2023. In its decree, the government stated that it would guarantee the supply of drinking water to hospitals, nursing homes, children and family centers, and offices of the Instituto del Niño y Adolescente del Uruguay (INAU).
The Uruguayan government states that the tap water in Montevideo is potable, however, it has recommended that persons suffering from high blood pressure limit their consumption of water supplied by OSE, and it has removed taxes on bottled water. You may wish to consult with your physician on the advisability of drinking the tap water based on the guidance provided by the government.
Actions to Take:
- Maintain awareness of water supplies in your area.
- If you are pregnant, or suffer from chronic kidney disease, cardiac failure, or cirrhosis, avoid drinking water supplied by OSE, and consult your doctor.
- If you are taking medication for hypertension or diuretic medication, limit your intake of water supplied by OSE as much as possible and consult your doctor. Frequent blood pressure checks are recommended.
- If possible, use bottled water to prepare formula for infants.
- Monitor and heed messages from the Government of Uruguay regarding the conservation of water.
Additional Information/Assistance:
U.S. Embassy in Uruguay, located at Lauro Müller 1776, Montevideo, Uruguay, at (+598 2) 1770-2000.
The after-hours emergency number for U.S. citizens is (+598 2) 1770-2000.
MontevideoACS@state.gov
https://uy.usembassy.gov/
State Department – Consular Affairs 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
Uruguay Country Information
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