Water levels in Spain's reservoirs rise to the highest level in 12 years

Reservoirs across the country continue to fill, with the Segura basin just over half full

Even though we haven't necessarily enjoyed this unusually grey and rainy start to the year, the recent rainfall has brought some benefits. Spain's water reserves have risen to 83.2% of their total capacity, the highest level in 12 years. That means the country now holds 46,608 cubic hectometres of water, just a little above the record set in 2014, which sets us up nicely for the summer dry season.

Looking at the individual river basins gives a clearer picture of how the water is spread throughout the country. The Segura basin, which serves much of south-eastern Spain, is just over half full at 51.2%. The Tajo basin in central Spain is much fuller at 81.2%, and the Júcar basin stands at 66.6%. Overall, there is still around 9,439 cubic hectometres to reach full capacity, but the levels are 9,741 cubic hectometres higher than this time last year and 14,057 cubic hectometres above the ten-year average.

The Tajo, which runs through central Spain and supplies water to regions including Madrid and Extremadura, is currently at 81.2%. Rivers in the Huelva area of south-west Spain hold high levels of around 90.8%. Some areas have lower water levels, including the western part of Spain's northern Atlantic coast, the internal rivers of the Basque Country, and rivers in inland Cataluña. The variations are largely due to local rainfall, water demand and the size of the river systems.

These water levels are important for the country as a whole. High reserves in the Tajo and other major systems help secure water for drinking, agriculture, and industry in central and southern Spain. In the north and in Cataluña, the lower levels aren't usually a problem, as there's still plenty of water overall. Altogether, the figures show that Spain's water supply is stronger than it was a year ago.

Overall, while the start of the year has felt unusually grey and rainy in some places, the rainfall has made a real difference for Spain's water supply. For areas like the Segura basin, where water is always in high demand, this increase is particularly significant. Hopefully, the wetter weather will mean there won't be water shortages or restrictions this summer, so people can fill their pools and enjoy the showers on the beach without a second thought.

Images: Confederación Hidrográfica del Segura