Faro, Portugal, Sept. 29, 2026 (Lusa) - The Algarve is heading into the new hydrological year with 74% storage capacity in its six main reservoirs, totalling 328 million cubic metres, 13 million more than a year ago, the APA reported today.
According to data the president of the Portuguese Environment Agency (APA) sent to the Lusa news agency, the region's water reserves have improved; however, this should not slow investment to strengthen water supply security.
«We have water. We should use every drop wisely,» José Pimenta Machado said, arguing that periods of greater availability «should be made the most of» to prepare the region for future dry years.
Among the priorities he highlighted are tackling water losses in urban networks and agricultural irrigation systems by recovering volumes currently being wasted and increasing efficiency.
The desalination project is another measure highlighted, as it provides «a supplementary source of water less dependent on rainfall» and serves as a safety reserve during periods of greater scarcity.
José Pimenta Machado also highlighted the connection between Pomarão and the Odeleite reservoirs as a «strategic investment», designed to bolster water availability and the resilience of the Algarve's water supply.
The current state of reserves «should encourage these investments»; it presents an opportunity to press ahead with the projects before a new period of scarcity arises, he added.
Water conservation must also remain a priority across various sectors, including households, tourism, agriculture and services, through more efficient usage, he argued.
«Water resilience is built before a drought strikes,» the APA chair emphasised, adding that preparations for the future must be made during periods of greater water availability.
The data from the APA/National Water Resources Information System (SNIRH) and the Algarve Region relate to Monday.
The hydrological year is a 12-month period, beginning on 1 October and ending on 30 September.
It begins in October, when water reserves reach their lowest level and the rainy season begins.
The wet season of the hydrological year runs from October to April and the dry season from May to September.
JPC/ADB // ADB.
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