Spain has experienced a remarkable transformation in its weather patterns this March 2025, marked by abundant rainfall that has significantly boosted the country's water reserves. In just three weeks, from March 1 to March 24, a staggering 7,385 cubic hectometers (hm³) of water were collected in Spanish reservoirs, which is equivalent to one and a half years of urban water consumption. This influx has raised the total water volume in reservoirs to 39,895 hm³, surpassing the combined annual consumption for agriculture, industry, and households, which stands at approximately 32,000 hm³.
As a result of this rainfall, the reservoirs are now operating at 71.2% of their capacity, a notable increase from 57.8% during the same period last year and significantly higher than the average of 60.1% over the past decade. According to Aemet, the Spanish meteorological agency, an average of 148 liters of rain fell per square meter across the country, which is 3.3 times more than the normal amount for March. This makes March 2025 the third wettest March on record since measurements began in 1962, following the years 2013 and 2018.
The Tajo, Guadalquivir, and Guadiana river basins have all seen marked improvements, with levels reaching 81.8%, 58.1%, and 65.3% respectively, all above their averages from the last decade. In a historic turn of events, the reservoirs in Valladolid, located in the Castilla y León region, have reached full capacity. However, not all regions have benefited equally; the Iznájar reservoir in Andalusia remains at a concerning 28.2% of its capacity.
In light of the improved water levels, the regional government in Catalonia has lifted the drought emergency in 34 municipalities, including areas in Alt Empordà and parts of Tarragona, allowing residents to increase their water usage for both domestic and agricultural purposes. However, metropolitan areas surrounding Barcelona and Girona remain on alert, as the reservoirs in the Ter-Llobregat system are still below the critical threshold of 60% capacity.
Despite the positive developments, experts and environmentalists urge caution. They emphasize that while water levels are rising, they still fall short of historical averages. With the tourist season approaching, they stress the importance of conserving water resources. Additionally, the melting of snow in the mountainous regions is expected to contribute further to the reservoirs in the coming days.
As the weather improves, Spain is also transitioning into spring after weeks of rain and cool temperatures. This week, temperatures across the country are expected to rise above 20 degrees Celsius, with some areas reaching as high as 24 degrees. The shift to warmer weather is a welcome change for many, particularly for those eager to enjoy the sun after a tumultuous early March marked by storms and flooding.
The recent storms, which originated from the Atlantic Ocean, caused significant rainfall and localized flooding. However, a high-pressure system now settling over southern Europe is ushering in drier and warmer conditions. In southern Spain, particularly in Andalusia, temperatures are predicted to reach between 23 and 24 degrees Celsius, while cities such as Valencia, Alicante, and Murcia will enjoy temperatures around 22 degrees Celsius.
In the northern and interior regions of Spain, temperatures will be slightly cooler, hovering around 18 to 20 degrees Celsius. Nights will remain brisk, with temperatures dipping between 5 and 10 degrees Celsius. Popular vacation destinations like the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands are also experiencing favorable weather, with the latter enjoying temperatures between 22 and 25 degrees Celsius, ideal for those planning to celebrate Easter.
While the warm weather is a boon for farmers who have been unable to work their fields due to the previous wet conditions, weather experts caution that this pleasant spell may be short-lived. Predictions indicate that new rain showers could return as early as the beginning of April, reminding everyone that Spain's weather can be as unpredictable as it is varied.
In summary, the combination of significantly increased water reserves and the arrival of spring-like temperatures paints a hopeful picture for Spain. The recent rainfall has alleviated some of the water concerns that plagued the country, although the call for responsible water management remains crucial as the nation prepares for the upcoming tourist season. As the weather warms, many are eager to embrace the outdoors and enjoy the revitalizing effects of spring.
