Water reserves on the Balearic Islands fall to 41 percent in August

Water reserves have fallen sharply: concerning numbers from August

\n

The Balearic Islands appear to be in a thirsty phase. The regional government has reported, for the end of August, a stock of only 41 percent of water reserves. That sounds abstract, but for many locals it already feels tangible: the faint drips in the gardens, buckets filling only after sparse rain.

\n

Where it looks worst

\n

Smaller islands are hit hardest: Menorca is reported at around 34 percent, Ibiza at around 27 percent. That's tight. For Mallorca, the statistics do not specify a single extreme value – the island, according to the government, lies between the numbers mentioned. By the way: The Spanish weather service AEMET confirms that August was unusually warm and dry in many areas.

\n

Looking at the rainfall figures it becomes clearer: On Mallorca in August only about 13 liters per square meter, on Ibiza barely more than 1 liter. That is not enough to sustainably fill reservoirs and storage.

\n

What this means for everyday life and agriculture

\n

For tourism, this continues as usual for now – drinking water is prioritized. But in the vegetable plots, in hotels, and in farmers' irrigation plans you can immediately feel the effects. Some communities are already talking about precautionary measures: stricter irrigation times, signage, standby for mobile water transport. Yesterday morning at 7 at Platja de Palma I met a few neighbors who said they now water early in the morning and late in the evening to avoid losses through evaporation.

\n

The debate about long-term solutions is also back: expansion of seawater desalination, better networks, subsidy programs for water-saving technology on fields. All of this is expensive and takes time. In the meantime, saving remains the simplest measure: fewer car washes, less garden watering, quickly repair leaky pipes.

\n

Looking ahead

\n

Autumn brings meteorological uncertainty at least – AEMET sees seasonal fluctuations but no clear weather turnaround. In short: the islands hope for rain, but plan for dry conditions as well. If you turn the tap on slower at the bar in the coming weeks or water the garden less often, you will help more than it seems at first glance.

\n

A small personal note: At the bakery on the corner (consideration instead of hoarding), people are now more often asking how they can save water at home. Start small; it helps.