Sometimes it feels like Mallorca could do with a little drama. For weeks, there was a sense of alarm: the Gorg Blau and Cúber reservoirs, emptier than they had been for a long time, presented a picture of desolation. But now, after the recent rains, there is cause for relief. The water level is rising and the island is breathing a sigh of relief - for the time being.
From drought to a glimmer of hope
At the end of October, the figures were shocking. The Gorg Blau had a meagre 22.6% fill level, while the Cúber managed just 31.74%. Now, in mid-November, things are at least looking better: Both reservoirs have increased and now stand at just over 38 percent. A step in the right direction, but the magic mark of 50 percent is still a long way off.
When the mountains have to help
The rain alone was not the hero of this story. The Serra de Turixant did the rest to save the numbers. Several torrents have carried water from the peaks of the Tramuntana down into the Gorg Blau in recent weeks. Without this natural influx of water, things would probably look bleaker.
Savings are still being made
Despite the recovery, the city of Palma's water conservation plan remains active. Instead of drastic measures, for the time being there are only friendly appeals to the population to use the precious water sparingly. But let's be honest: the habit of letting water flow carelessly is not so easy to switch off. If those responsible have their way, saving water will remain an ongoing issue.
A look back - and forward
It is interesting to note that the current water level is roughly average for recent years. The exception was 2021, a year that - ironically during the pandemic - shone with a level of 85%. But that was probably more of a fluke than the norm. It shows once again how fragile the island's water supply is. Mallorca literally lives from the sky.
The unwritten law of the island
Water is a treasure, but the island doesn't always treat it that way. Unlimited pools, lush green golf courses and a tourism industry that knows no rest - how does that fit together? Perhaps this water shortage is a small wake-up call that reminds us that nature also has its limits on Mallorca.
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