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Tenerife declares water emergency amid ongoing drought
The Spanish island could be facing years of water shortages, the experts warn
The Canary Islands are frequently ranked as one of the warmest parts of Spain, enjoying balmy spring-like temperatures even in the depths of winter. But this famously pleasant micro-climate is taking its toll and Tenerife is set to declare a drought emergency on Friday March 1.
Experts warn that the island is facing months, if not years, of critical water scarcity. Technical reports indicate that midland areas of Tenerife are experiencing an extended period of drought, with little to no rain during what should be the wettest months of the year. This, combined with increased water evaporation due to rising temperatures, has resulted in a significant decrease in rainfall, ranging between 15% and 40%, in recent years.
The situation has become so dire that January 2023 recorded an average temperature of 20.9ºC, marking the hottest month on record for the past 60 years. Local reports reveal that reservoirs are
currently at 34.6% capacity, compared to 52% at the same time last year.
To address the issue, the Tenerife Island Water Council and the Ministry of Tourism plan to launch public awareness campaigns aimed at both residents and tourists, emphasising the need for responsible water usage. The measures come as wildfires fuelled by drought and extreme heat devastated parts of the island's forests in August 2023.
Tenerife is exploring various solutions to mitigate water scarcity, such as expanding water treatment and desalination facilities to increase supplies for agriculture and households. As the island relies heavily on underground sources for 80% of its water supply, with no rivers and limited dams, these efforts are crucial.
Other regions in Spain are also grappling with water shortages. Barcelona declared a drought emergency on February 1, while authorities in Andalucia will impose restrictions on water use in certain cities, including Sevilla and Córdoba, unless there are "at least 30 days of rain in a row," according to the regional president.
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Image: Pixabay
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