Droughts are becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change. Spain is a country highly vulnerable to its effects. Water management is imperative and of vital importance for the future and for the summer we must face with high temperatures and heat waves.
The rainfall deficit that has plagued Spain for the past few years, following the warmest spring in half a century, means we are starting the summer with reservoirs at only 53% of their total capacity . This is almost 20% lower than at this time in 2007. What can we do about this?
Droughts and reservoirs running out
According to data from the Ministry of Agriculture, Food, Fisheries and Environment (Mapama), in this last week of June, the water reserve is 29.928 cubic hectometers , 53,5%, a percentage far from the average of the decade, which was 71,4%, and of last year, 71,7%, and which place 2017 almost twenty percentage points below the average.
In just one week since the start of summer, reservoir water reserves have decreased by 750 cubic hectometers (equivalent to 1,3% of total reservoir capacity). The Ebro River has suffered the greatest loss, with a decrease of 153 cubic hectometers.
Despite these figures, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAPAMA) states that the rate at which water resources are depleting is not as high as usual for this time of year. This is due to some rainfall in recent weeks and, above all, to reduced water consumption in many areas, with restrictions even in certain reservoirs given the current situation.
It is a low figure if one takes into account that the maximum occupation of the Spanish reservoirs takes place around these dates, once the thaw has concluded.
Current state of reservoirs in Spain
In general, the state of reservoirs in Spain has been closely monitored, especially in recent years, where drought has been a recurring problem. Currently, there are 374 reservoirs with a storage capacity of over 56.000 cubic hectometers . This capacity allows for the management of large volumes of water, essential for human consumption, agriculture, and energy production.
- Current reservoirs show an occupancy percentage that varies considerably depending on the region, with a 54,7 % of its total occupied capacity.
- The basins that store the least water include the Segura and Andalusian Mediterranean Basin.
- Reserves in basins such as the ebro and the Duero remain above their historical average, indicating a less critical situation in those areas. More information about the State of reservoirs in Spain 2023 can be found on our website.
- Projections indicate that the state of the reservoirs could improve thanks to the rainfall forecast for the coming weeks.
Variation in water reserves
Recently, abundant rainfall has played a crucial role in the recovery of water levels in reservoirs. For example, in the last week, an increase of 2.751 cubic hectometers has been recorded , bringing the total water reserve in peninsular reservoirs to 65,8% , a level significantly higher than the previous year (56,8%) and the average storage level of the last decade (59,2%).
The watersheds that have shown the greatest improvement include:
– The one of the Tajo, where the reserve has increased by 83 hm³ for consumptive use, and a total of 835 hm³ including hydroelectric uses.
- Guadiana, with an increase of 523 hm³, showing a remarkable recovery.
- Guadalquivir, which has added 571 hm³ in the last week, which has significantly improved its reservoir status.
This indicates that although some regions still face limitations, there are positive signs of improvement in water availability. Furthermore, it is crucial to closely monitor the impact of droughts on reservoir water levels.
Factors affecting water availability
Water availability in reservoirs is not only affected by rainfall, but also by factors such as:
- Evapotranspiration: High temperatures promote water evaporation, thus reducing the amount available.
- Demand for water resources: This includes use for agricultural irrigation, urban and industrial consumption, which can put pressure on reservoirs.
- Water management: Planning and monitoring water resources is essential to ensure their availability throughout the year.
Impact on affected regions
Droughts have had a profound impact on several regions of Spain. For example:
- In AndalucÃaIrrigation restrictions have become common due to dwindling water supplies.
- In CataloniaThe recent rains have increased reservoir water reserves to 45,2%, a relief after the severe drought of the previous months. For more information on the reservoir situation, please consult the current situation in Andalusia.
- At northwest of Spain, especially in river basins such as the Ebro and the Duero, the situation is more favorable, with an increase in reserves above the historical average.
The importance of water management
Water management has become critical in the current climate situation. Implementing policies that regulate the use and preservation of water resources is essential. Some of the strategies being considered or implemented include:
- Reuse of wastewater: This practice allows for maximizing water use, reducing pressure on reservoirs.
- Construction of storage infrastructure: New dams and reservoirs are needed to ensure efficient water resource management. For more details on initiatives in Spain, see our section on reservoirs.
- Education on responsible consumption: Promoting sustainable water consumption habits among the population can help conserve this vital resource.
The future of Spain's reservoirs depends on their ability to adapt to the effects of climate change. Collaboration between the government, communities, and the private sector is essential to ensure access to this vital resource.
Recent reports highlight that the reservoir situation is dynamic and requires constant attention. With the spring rains, there may be some respite, but a proactive approach to water management is imperative to address future climate challenges.
