Barcelona is facing the worst drought in 50 years in the Ter and Llobregat river basins that supply water to Barcelona and its metropolitan area. It is considered one of the worst in recent history.
The situation is further aggravated by the fact that the region has not seen significant rainfall for 29 months, making it one of the most severe rainfall situations since 1905.
According to Samuel Reyes, director of the Catalan Water Agency, the supply of the precious liquid is guaranteed until the summer of 2023.
However, there could be water supply cuts during the last five months of the year.
Barcelona suffers one of the worst droughts in its history
Due to the situation, urgent measures have begun to be implemented.
The restrictions on water use affect nearly six million citizens in 224 municipalities in 15 regions, including the Barcelonès region and the Catalan capital.
The Generalitat has imposed new restrictions to reduce the use of water in the region, with the intention of reducing the distribution of water to citizens, given the possibility of water shortages.
The measures
They include prohibiting the irrigation of private gardens and the filling of swimming pools and ornamental fountains, with the exception of soccer fields, lakes that support aquatic life, and artificial lakes that are necessary for the maintenance of aquatic life.
The measures also prohibit the cleaning of streets with potable water, except in case of accident or fire, or in case of a sanitary or environmental risk.
Given the current drought in Barcelona, it is important to take measures to prevent water waste.
As a citizen, you can save water by: reducing shower time, turning off the tap while brushing your teeth or washing your hands, using washing machines and dishwashers only when they are completely full.
You can also repair leaks in faucets and pipes and water plants and gardens during off-peak hours to prevent water evaporation.
The situation is critical and the regional government is asking citizens to cooperate with the restrictions and use water wisely to avoid further water shortages.
One of the worst droughts in its history: weather forecast
According to weather forecasts, not much rain is expected in Barcelona in the coming months, which would further aggravate the current drought.
The region has already experienced more than two years of continuous drought and this situation is expected to continue for an extended period of time.
Experts have pointed out that it is important to reduce water waste and make responsible use of the resource in order to avoid a water crisis.
