Lorraine Williamson
Spain experienced record-breaking rainfall in March 2025, pushing national water reserves to their highest levels in over a year. In just three weeks, reservoirs collected more than 7,300 cubic hectometres (hm³) of water, equivalent to 18 months of urban water use.
The total reservoir storage now stands at 39,895 hm³. That figure comfortably exceeds the country’s average annual water consumption across agriculture, households, and industry, which totals around 32,000 hm³. Compared to the same time last year, when reserves stood at just 57.8%, current capacity has surged to 71.2%. This also surpasses the ten-year average of 60.1%.
March rains among wettest on record
According to Spain’s national weather agency Aemet, the average rainfall between 1 and 24 March reached 148 litres per square metre, over three times the seasonal norm. This makes March 2025 the third-wettest March since records began in 1962, after 2013 and 2018.
The increase in rainfall was not evenly distributed. Basins such as the Tajo (81.8%), Guadiana (65.3%), and Guadalquivir (58.1%) all saw significant gains. In Castilla y León, several reservoirs—including those in Valladolid—are now full, an unusual scenario for the region. Other provinces, including Ávila, Soria, and Segovia also reported near-maximum storage levels.
Andalucia, however, remains an outlier. The Iznájar reservoir—its largest—holds just 28.2% of capacity, underlining the persistent drought in southern Spain.
Catalonia sees partial easing of restrictions
Following the rainfall, some parts of Spain have relaxed drought-related water restrictions. In Catalonia, the regional government has downgraded the emergency status in 34 municipalities across Alt Empordà. Restrictions have also been eased in Riudecanyes and Duesaigües, both in Tarragona.
In these areas, households and farmers are now allowed greater flexibility in water usage. However, much of the metropolitan area around Barcelona and Girona remains on alert. The key Ter-Llobregat reservoir system still sits below the 60% threshold required to lift restrictions.
Snowmelt to provide further boost
The recent precipitation has not only replenished reservoirs but also added to snowpacks in mountainous areas. Experts expect the gradual snowmelt over the coming weeks to further raise water levels, especially in northern and central Spain.
Still, environmentalists urge caution. While the current situation marks a significant improvement, many reservoirs remain below long-term averages. Summer is fast approaching—a season that typically brings intense heatwaves, soaring water demand, and minimal rainfall. Spain’s tourism sector, agriculture, and domestic consumption all place considerable strain on water supplies during the hotter months. With visitor numbers expected to climb and another dry spell possible, pressure on water systems will likely intensify.
South still faces long-term water stress
Despite the temporary relief, long-term water security—particularly in southern Spain—remains unresolved. Persistent heatwaves and dry summers continue to strain local ecosystems and infrastructure. Experts stress that sustained investment, efficient water management, and climate adaptation strategies are essential to avoid future crises.