Huelva celebrates reservoirs, but drought could return in 2026

Following a year marked by severe drought, water reserves in Huelva are showing signs of recovery. However, Fernando González, president of Huelva Riega, warns that if autumn doesn’t bring sufficient rainfall, new water restrictions could return in spring 2026.

At present, Huelva’s water system holds 744 cubic hectometers, a considerable improvement over the 458 recorded during the same period in 2024. Despite the improved outlook, water losses remain a concern, with 7.73 cubic hectometers lost in the past ten days, mirroring last year’s negative trend.

González notes that the pre-alert threshold for water scarcity has already been exceeded by 116 cubic hectometers. If consumption patterns mirror those of previous years, the region could hit a critical point by September — even though the basin is currently at 71% of its capacity.

“The situation has improved, but the system remains structurally deficient,” González emphasized, calling for urgent progress on key infrastructure such as the Alcolea dam, which still awaits the start of construction.

For the agricultural sector, the takeaway is clear: today’s relief does not ensure tomorrow’s stability. Without consistent rainfall or long-term solutions, water restrictions could once again shape the outcome of future harvests.

source: europapres.es

photo: huelvainformacion.es