Summary:
Algarve reservoirs now at 49% capacity, a significant increase from 34%.
Heavy rains from Depression Garoe contributed to the surge in water levels.
Sotavento reservoirs are at 71% capacity, while Barlavento is at 33%.
Total water volume has increased by nearly 15 hectometers cubed to 215 hm3.
Current water reserves can supply Algarve for over a year.
Algarve Reservoirs Reach 49% Capacity
The reservoirs of Algarve have seen a significant increase in their water levels, now standing at 49% of their total capacity. This is a notable rise from just 34% recorded over a week ago, prior to heavy rains affecting the region and Baixo Alentejo. The data comes from the Agência Portuguesa do Ambiente and is available on the National Water Resources Information System.
Recent Rainfall Impact
Following the passage of Depression Garoe, the APA reported that the reservoirs were already at 45% capacity. However, there is a stark contrast between the reservoirs in Sotavento and those in Barlavento regions. The APA's Weekly Bulletin indicates that as of January 27, the two reservoirs in Sotavento now hold 71% capacity - with Odeleite at 73% and Beliche at 65%.
In contrast, the Barlavento region shows a modest increase from 31% to 33%, with Odelouca at 37%, Funcho at 44%, Arade at 17%, and Bravura at 14%.
Water Supply for the Future
Since mid-last week, the total amount of water stored in Algarve's six major reservoirs has increased by nearly 15 hectometers cubed, reaching approximately 215 hm3. To put this in perspective, the average annual urban water consumption in Algarve is around 80 hm3. Additionally, these reservoirs also serve agricultural purposes. Currently, there is enough stored water in Algarve for over a year, according to the APA.
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