Sometimes it feels like Mallorca could do with a little drama. The current situation of the water levels in Mallorca's reservoirs shows hope for rain, but still no reason to rejoice. 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 rainfall, there is cause for relief. The water level is rising and the island is breathing a sigh of relief - for the time being.
Current status of the reservoirs
The current water levels in the Gorg Blau and Cúber reservoirs on Mallorca are showing a slight recovery. The Cúber reservoir is currently at a level of 32.65 percent, which corresponds to an increase of 2.04 percentage points compared to the previous week. The Gorg Blau recorded a water level of 29.2 percent on Monday, after it was only 25.26 percent full a week earlier. This represents an increase of almost 4 percentage points.
Despite this positive development, water levels are still well below the previous year's level. At the end of October 2023, the average water levels were 37.35 percent. The recent rainfall, especially the heavy rainfall on Friday and Saturday with up to 113 liters of rain per square meter in the Serra d'Alfàbia and the Tramuntana mountains, has contributed to this improvement in water reserves, as Llorenç Bauzá, the president of Palma's municipal utilities (Emaya), explained.
However, Bauzá emphasized the need to continue to be economical. The population is once again being called upon to save water in order to conserve the precious reserves. The recent rainfall is a glimmer of hope, but still no reason to rejoice.
Causes of the current water level
The causes of the current water levels on Mallorca are varied and complex. One major factor is the persistent drought, which has significantly reduced the water reserves in the reservoirs. Climate change is also playing its part by altering rainfall patterns and increasing temperatures, which further increases the demand for water on the island.
Another significant factor is the growing tourism industry on Mallorca. Especially in the summer months, water consumption increases dramatically, which puts further pressure on the already scarce water reserves. The existing infrastructure, including reservoirs and water pipes, is often inadequate to meet the increasing demand.
The city of Palma and the island's government have taken various measures to reduce water demand and protect water reserves. These include the promotion of water conservation, the implementation of water saving measures and investment in new water infrastructure. Despite these efforts, the situation remains tense and it is crucial that both the population and visitors to the island continue to use water sparingly.
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 a little better: Both reservoirs have increased and now stand at just over 38 percent, which can be attributed to the rainfall in the Tramuntana mountains. 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 Tramuntana mountains played a significant role in raising the water levels in the reservoirs. The Serra de Turixant has done 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 inflow of water, things would probably look bleaker.
Background and context
The Gorg Blau and Cúber reservoirs are the most important water reserves on Mallorca and supply the island's capital Palma and surrounding municipalities with drinking water. These reservoirs are part of the Tramuntana mountains, which play a central role in regulating the island's water balance. However, rainfall in the region is irregular and often leads to strong fluctuations in the water reserves.
Mallorca is known for its breathtaking beauty and rich culture, but the island is also prone to drought and water shortages. The city of Palma and the island's government are working hard to protect water reserves and reduce water demand in order to preserve the island for future generations.
Residents and visitors to the island can make an important contribution by using water responsibly and supporting water management measures. The situation in Mallorca is an example of the challenges that many regions around the world face in coping with water scarcity and drought. However, by working together and implementing sustainable solutions, Mallorca can be a role model for successfully overcoming these challenges.
Savings are still being made
Despite the recovery, concerns about water reserves remain and 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 this fit in with the water supply in the island's capital, Palma? Perhaps this water shortage is a small wake-up call, reminding us that nature has its limits on Mallorca too.
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