Catalonia’s reservoirs approach 92% after Storm Harry and break records

The rains brought by Storm Harry have filled Catalan reservoirs. Stored water is three times what it was a year ago. There has not been this much reserve since 2021. Find out the data and the impact on the region.

The heavy rains caused by Storm Harry have boosted water reserves in the reservoirs of Catalonia's internal basins, which now exceed 600 hm³ stored. This volume has not been recorded since June 2021, marking a milestone after years of drought.

On Thursday morning, reservoirs were at 91.5% of their total capacity. The Ter system, which includes the Sau and Susqueda reservoirs, is even higher, at 94.5%. The amount of water accumulated in January is almost three times that recorded exactly one year ago.

The episode of rain, which has lasted more than a month, has been key to reversing the critical situation in the reservoirs. The Catalan Water Agency has decided to release a significant flow from El Pasteral downstream, taking advantage of the thaw and the high flow of the River Ter.

Since midnight on Thursday, 142 hm³/second have been released, which is equivalent to three quarters of the flow of the River Ebro as it passes through Tortosa. This measure comes after the rivers of north-eastern Catalonia stabilised and seeks to manage the excess accumulated water.

The previous release of water made it possible to absorb the storm's rains while keeping outflow to a minimum. Now, with a return to normality, the discharge is being increased to avoid risks and make use of the abundant water.