But remains “above average” with exception of Algarve/ Alentejo
The amount of water stored in the country’s river basins fell in September compared to the last day of the previous month, according to data from the National Water Resources Information System (SNIRH).
Storage by river basin was, however, above average, with the exception of the Sado, Mira (Alentejo), Guadiana, Arade and Barlavento (Algarve) basins.
The Barlavento basin continues to have the least amount of water, just 7.7 per cent, compared to the average of 54%.
Of the 60 reservoirs monitored, 10 had water availability of more than 80% of their total volume; 19 had less than 40%.
According to the data just released, at the end of September the Barlavento (7.7%), Arade (26.7%), Mira (31.2%), Sado (36.2%), Ave (51.8%) and Oste (53.5%) basins had the lowest water availability – the latter basins being outside the Algarve/ Alentejo areas.
The Douro basin had the largest volume of water, with 77.2% of its capacity, followed by the Cávado (77.1%), Lima (75.1%), Tejo (68.2%) and Mondego (63.6%).
Storage in September 2023 by river basin was generally higher than September storage averages (1990/91 to 2021/22) – except for the Sado, Guadiana, Mira, Ribeiras do Algarve and Arade basins, all of which are well below average.
Says Lusa, each river basin may have more than one reservoir.
Source material: LUSA
