This will be my and my husband's first Camino. We are planning to start around mid-August in St. Jean and take about six weeks. However, we have been following the drought situation. All signs seems to point to this extreme drought continuing and so I am wondering if anyone who walked around the same time last year can offer any advice or information. Thank you!!
What exactly is your fear?
This is the third year, officially, of drought.
Read up on the usual advice about walking in extreme heat such as avoiding direct sunlight as much as possible (a hat), drinking frequently, resting. etc. If sweating a lot you may like to consider some magnesium/potassium supplements, available in any farmacia, either as a powder to mix with water or in tablet form. The powder can make warm water less unpleasant to drink but requires more cleaning of bottles and nozzles. I travel by bike so weight is less of an issue but juicy fruit like oranges can be a godsend on hot days.
You may find that some fountains are dry but there are normally other sources of water. It would be no harm to budget for some extra rest days, shorter days or the occasional bus or taxi.
Probably the most important thing is to pay attention to your body. Dehydration can lead to dizzyness, loss of balance and other medical problems. In the past, when I was not drinking enough I set a regular alarm on my phone to remind me to drink every hour.
There is little reason to be anxious (unless you are a farmer) and pack just a modicum of common sense.
Buen Camino
