Algarve Reservoirs Hit Record Capacity of 88%: What This Means for the Future

Algarve Reservoirs Reach Record Levels

The average storage capacity of the six reservoirs in the Algarve has reached a historic 88%, according to the Agência Portuguesa do Ambiente (APA). This remarkable figure is unlikely to be replicated in the coming years.

An official from the APA stated, “These numbers from the Algarve are unprecedented.” The agency emphasizes the urgent need to focus all efforts on executing water resilience projects to prepare the region for the future, noting that this year has been an exceptional case.

Rainfall Trends in the Algarve

The APA also highlighted that over the past 12 years, rainfall in the Algarve has been 25-30% below average, worsening to 45% below average since 2019. This dramatic decline in precipitation underscores the importance of sustainable management of water resources.

Current Reservoir Capacities

Currently, the volume of water stored in the Algarve's reservoirs stands at 393 hm³ (hectometers cubic), which translates to 88% of their total capacity. Here’s the breakdown:

• Odeleite Reservoir (East): 97% capacity (126.50 hm³)
• Beliche Reservoir (East): 92% capacity (44.32 hm³)
• Odelouca Reservoir (West): 90% capacity (141.46 hm³)
• Arade Reservoir (West): 72% capacity (20.31 hm³)
• Bravura Reservoir (West): 60% capacity (20.73 hm³)
• Funcho Reservoir (West): 83% capacity (39.59 hm³)

Significant Increase in Stored Water

Compared to the same period in 2024, there has been an increase of approximately 194 hm³ of stored water: 83 hm³ in the East (43%) and 111 hm³ in the West (57%).

Water Consumption Relief Announced

On March 14, the government announced a relief on water consumption restrictions in the Algarve, applying a 5% reduction across all sectors, including agriculture, urban areas, and tourism. This decision aims to balance water use amid changing environmental conditions.