A new chapter in water management
The Government of the Generalitat has made an important decision on Monday: the pre -alert for drought in Catalonia, with some exceptions. This news comes as a result of exceptional spring in terms of rain, which has brought reservoirs to levels almost unthinkable just over two months ago.
Remarkable recovery of reservoirs
The reservoirs of internal basins have experienced a significant increase, exceeding 77% of their capacity on Tuesday. This recovery is surprising, especially if it is considered that in early March, its capacity was only 31%.
The Ter-Llobregat system, about to reach 80%
In the case of the Ter-Llobregat system, which supplies water in Barcelona, the situation is even more encouraging. Currently, the reservoirs of this system have reached 78.5%, in the hope that in a few days the 80%mark will be exceeded, a milestone that has not been seen since August 2021.
Levels above the historical average
Most reservoirs in Catalonia are now above 70% of their capacity. Only two, Riudecanyes (61%) and Siurana (26%), remain below this threshold. In addition, there are reservoirs that are already full, such as the Foix reservoir, which has been maximum for weeks, and the Baells, which remains between 97% and 99%.
Increase in rivers’ flows
Rivers are also significantly contributing to the recovery of reservoirs. The river Ter, for example, flows with more than 30 m³/s in Roda de Ter. The Cardener and Water of Valls also carry a considerable flow, increasing the reserves of water before reaching the Llosa del Cavall.
The future of water reserves
With reservoirs close to 80%, the question is now: What will happen to water reserves in the coming weeks? The rains that are expected will be decisive for the evolution of these levels, as the afternoon showers will become more scarce, but the inertia of the rivers will allow the reservoirs to continue to increase for a few more days.
Precipitation expectations
As the reservoirs recover, the Catalan Water Agency (ACA) has already announced that it will increase the exit flow of the Baells reservoir, which cannot currently store more water. This is a reflection of the current situation and the need to manage water resources in a sustainable way.
