Heavy rains boost Segura basin reservoirs, easing Murcia drought concerns
The recent storms have replenished Murcia’s water reserves and may lead to a reduction in restrictions on farmers
The recent heavy rainfall in the Region of Murcia has significantly replenished the Segura basin, adding over 30 hectometres of water to its reservoirs. This has brought total reserves above 250 cubic hectometres (hm³), reversing the prolonged drought-induced decline. While this influx is promising, authorities warn it won’t resolve the drought crisis immediately.
The Permanent Drought Commission is set to meet this month and may reduce or lift existing water restrictions. These include a 40% cut for traditional irrigation, 57% for non-traditional irrigation, and a 25% reduction for all water uses on the right bank of the Segura. Areas such as the Noroeste district, north Lorca, Mula and Almería – previously declared in an exceptional drought situation – have seen the most rainfall.
Irrigation groups and agricultural organisations, including COAG, are hopeful that at least some restrictions will be eased by spring. The State Meteorological Agency (Aemet) predicts a wetter-than-normal spring season, which could further alleviate water shortages.
The rains have also benefited regional parks and forests, particularly coniferous trees, which had been struggling due to the prolonged dryness. The Ministry for the Environment notes that while the rainfall will slow forest deterioration, it won’t offer an immediate solution. In areas like Mula and Bullas, rainfall in the first half of the hydrological year has tripled compared to the previous year, improving aquifer levels.
Minister for Agriculture Sara Rubira confirmed that the rains have been largely beneficial to the countryside, despite some localised crop damage. Authorities are assessing economic losses in affected areas. Municipalities such as Mula, Bullas, Cehegín and Caravaca de la Cruz recorded between 300 and 400 litres per square metre, increasing river flows and filling reservoirs like La Cierva, which has doubled its capacity.
The Argos and Quípar reservoirs have also seen significant rises, securing water supplies for primary irrigation.
However, rainfall in the Segura’s headwaters was insufficient, with the Fuensanta and Cenajo reservoirs gaining only eight hectometres combined. Despite this, Cenajo has surpassed the 20% capacity mark, reducing fears of reaching critically low levels.
Meanwhile, Murcia is still awaiting the release of 87hm³ from the Tagus-Segura aqueduct. Castilla-La Mancha’s Sustainable Development Minister, Mercedes Gómez, stated that the transfer will occur “when conditions allow”.
So, while the recent storms have provided much-needed relief, continued monitoring and effective management will be essential to ensuring long-term water security for the region.
Image: CHS
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