Heavy Rains Trigger Emergency Water Releases in Algarve's Dams and Floods in Vale do Tejo

Recent Weather Changes

The intense precipitation experienced in recent days has led to a significant rise in the water levels of dams in the Algarve, necessitating emergency water releases from several reservoirs in the region. In just three months, the area has transitioned from a water scarcity situation to one of abundance, bringing both relief and challenges to water resource management.

Emergency Alerts in Dams

At the Odeleite Dam in Castro Marim, an alert siren was activated this Tuesday to signal the opening of sluice gates, a measure not taken since 2018. This audible warning was issued to inform the public about the need for controlled water discharge into the Guadiana River. The Beliche Dam, connected to Odeleite, also began controlled releases after both dams recorded an increase of approximately two meters in their storage levels.

Cautious Optimism

According to Teresa Fernandes, spokesperson for Águas do Algarve, the company responsible for public water supply in the region, this is a positive moment but one that requires caution. She stated, "It's a happy moment because the Algarve dams are filling up, but we must be very attentive as we do not know when the next dry period will arrive," as reported by Correio da Manhã.

Current Dam Capacities

The Odeleite Dam currently stands at 94% capacity, while the Beliche Dam is at 89%. The Funcho Dam, at 58%, is also releasing water into the Arade reservoir, which remains at a lower level of 20%. The Odelouca Dam, the largest in Algarve, has seen its levels rise by two meters recently, reaching 61% capacity.

Flooding in Vale do Tejo

The adverse weather conditions are also affecting central Portugal, particularly in the Vale do Tejo, where flooding is reported due to preventative discharges from Portuguese and Spanish dams. The Martinho depression has been responsible for these persistent rains, causing roads and agricultural lands to become submerged. In areas like Golegã, strong winds have stirred the waters of the Tejo River, leading to extensive flooding that impacts crops such as peas and potatoes. Farmers are experiencing delays in planting spring and summer crops, including tomatoes and corn, although there is hope that the current water storage will benefit irrigation in the upcoming seasons.

Coordinated Management Efforts

The management of dams in the Vale do Tejo has been coordinated between Portugal and Spain, employing a prevention strategy to create space for new rains without compromising infrastructure safety. Controlled releases have helped to prevent more severe situations while ensuring water availability for the approaching dry season.

Continuous Monitoring Needed

With unpredictable weather conditions, authorities emphasize the need for constant monitoring of reservoir levels and efficient water resource management to prevent floods and avoid future drought crises.