Unusual water levels in reservoirs
The Tarragona reservoirs have a surprising variability in their water reserves after the rainfall this March. While the Margalef reservoir, located in the Priorat, has experienced an unusual overflow, others such as those in Siurana and Guiamets are kept with alarmingly low levels, around 22% of its capacity.
Notable improvements in certain reservoirs
Increased rainfall has significantly benefited some reserves that have not shown similar levels for years. The Siurana reservoir, with a total capacity of 12.2 hm3, has reached 22.2% of its capacity, thanks to the constant contribution of the tributaries of the area. This increase is notable, as current records were not seen since June 2022.
The Guiamets reservoir: a similar case
With a capacity of 10.5 hm3, the Guiamets reservoir has experienced similar growth, from 7.8% to 22.6% in just four weeks. This recovery is an indicative of the importance of recent rains, which have helped to recover reserves that have not been seen since August 2022.
Margalef: a reservoir that Renaix
In contrast to other reservoirs, the Margalef one has an unusual image, with water that overflows the 2.3 hm3. After drying almost completely, he has regained strength and is providing a life supply to the neighboring towns. Its capacity increased from 2% to 90% after the rains of October, and now, with the March showers, it has returned to Overflow, benefiting the Montsant river.
Riudecanyes: the growing internal basin
Riudecanyes, a reservoir of internal basins, has recently reached 49% of its capacity. This increase is attributed to both the local rains and the water transfer of the Siurana river, which has provided a significant flow. With a derivation of more than 700 liters per second, this reservoir had not reached this amount since July 2021.
Ulldecona and Terres de l’Ebre
In Terres de l’Ebre, the Ulldecona reservoir has reached 84.1%. This reservoir, which had been completely empty until October, has recovered its volume thanks to the weather conditions. Currently, it is preventive water to maintain the water balance of the Júcar basin.
Francolí River: A surprise increase
One of the most notable changes in the region is the increase in the flow of the Francolí river. Its source in the Espluga de Francolí flows strongly, and in Montblanc it has reached a flow of 2.5 m3/s, an unusual figure. Although it has recently been dry on the surface, the river has recovered a water capacity that has not been seen for some time.
Reflections on the future water
The current situation of the Tarragona reservoirs reminds us of the importance of sustainable water management. Variations in water reserves reflect not only the weather conditions, but also the need for appropriate planning to meet the future challenges that could affect the region’s water resources.