Lorraine Williamson
Water levels in Spanish reservoirs have increased for eleven consecutive weeks, reaching their highest point in three years.
The surge follows months of consistent rainfall and has brought relief to regions previously facing critical shortages. With summer approaching, the improved conditions are especially welcome news for the agriculture sector and households across the country.
National water reserves now over 77%
According to data from Spain’s Ministry for Ecological Transition, water reserves now stand at 43,230 cubic hectometres (hm³). This represents 77.1% of Spain’s total reservoir capacity. At the same point last year, the figure was 66.3%. The increase reflects widespread and evenly distributed rainfall across the Iberian Peninsula since early spring.
The wet conditions have allowed many areas to ease restrictions on water use. However, officials warn the improvement may be short-lived without sustained efforts to manage water resources more effectively.
Regional differences highlight uneven recovery
Despite the national average, some areas continue to experience difficulty. In contrast, northern and western regions have seen significant gains.
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The Duero basin is at 92.3% of capacity.
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The Ebro basin follows at 88.9%.
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Reservoirs in the Basque Country are nearly full.
In Catalonia, where drought conditions were particularly severe in 2024, internal basins have recovered to 76.2%. One year ago, they stood at just 25%. This has allowed local authorities to lift some of the water restrictions in place for over a year.
However, the southeast remains a concern. The Segura basin, which supplies parts of Murcia and Almería, holds just 29.6% of its capacity. Several reservoirs in Andalucia are still below 50%, although provinces like Granada and Huelva report levels over 80%.
Relief for farmers, but risks remain
The improved water availability is a temporary reprieve for farmers, many of whom have struggled with limited irrigation and poor yields in recent years. The agricultural sector is expected to benefit in the short term, but long-term risks persist.
Experts note that the real test will come during the hotter months. With high temperatures and potential heatwaves forecast for summer, demand for water is expected to increase again.
Structural drought still a concern
Climate scientists continue to warn that the current rainfall does not resolve Spain’s underlying water issues. Longer dry spells and more intense rainfall events — both linked to climate change — are becoming more frequent.
An analysis published in El País concludes that the recent improvement may be short-lived. Sudden heavy rain can lead to erosion and flash flooding, while extended droughts continue to challenge water storage systems.
The Ministry for Ecological Transition has urged a long-term commitment to sustainable water policies and investment in infrastructure. Meteorologists predict more rainfall in the north over the coming weeks, but future water security will depend on more than just weather patterns.