Sicily declares state of emergency amid worst drought in almost 20 years

 Sicily has declared a state of emergency as the region experiences its worst drought in almost 20 years.

A lack of winter rainfall after last year's hot summer has left supplies running low. Experts say it could be the third most serious water crisis ever recorded on the island.

Reservoirs are drying up, water is being rationed and farmers are reporting failed crops.

It comes as severe drought hits countries across the western Mediterranean including parts of Spain and other regions of Italy. In early February, President of Sicily Renato Schifani declared the drought a natural disaster.

"Sicily is the only region in Italy and among the few in Europe in a red zone due to a shortage of water resources. Morocco and Algeria are in the same situation," the regional government said in a statement.

For local authorities, the situation is serious. Without timely intervention, there is a real risk that in a few weeks citizens will be without water.

"Around 10 to 15 per cent of water is already rationed in 55 municipalities," Massimo Burruano, Operations Director at water management company Siciliacque, told Euronews.

"However, as of Monday 4 March, water rationing will be implemented in more than 93 municipalities, affecting 850,000 residents. In some cases, rationing could reach 45 per cent."