Water returns to the swamps: images of before and after the rains

BarcelonaThe generous spring rains have brought reservoirs to levels not seen in recent years. The country has spent nearly three years suffering from a severe drought, but in the last month, reserves have more than doubled and are now at 60% of capacity. This is because the rivers and streams that supply the headwaters of the inland basins have received more than 300 l/m² throughout March, and the outlook is optimistic because all the water from the spring thaw is still missing.

The Baells, Sau, and Darnius-Boadella reservoirs have received the most water, as their headwaters have been particularly affected by the recent Levante storm. In fact, such a sudden increase has not been seen since the storm.Glory.

The water has completely changed the landscape, and here you can see the before-and-after images of these welcome rains.

Sau Reservoir

The symbol of this drought has undoubtedly been Sau, in Osona, and specifically the church of Sant Romà, in the middle of the reservoir. In one year, this reservoir has gone from being practically empty (in April 2024, it was at 2% capacity) and having to be emptied and fish removed to preserve the quality of the little water that remained, to being 70% full today.

In fact, only the roof of the bell tower of the emblematic church is currently visible, an image we haven't had for a long time and which contrasts with the worst of the drought, when the entire church could be seen, which has now been submerged again.

Photos: Pere Tordera

Susqueda Reservoir

The Susqueda reservoir, like the Sau reservoir, belongs to the Ter hydrographic system. In February 2024, it reached 21.2% of its capacity (233 hm³), its lowest level ever, but the percentage currently stands at 43.47%. Since Sau collects all of the Ter's water, the Susqueda reservoir is not undergoing major changes.

Photos: Pere Tordera

The Baells reservoir

Also in February 2024, the Berguedá reservoir in the Baells—one of the largest in the inland basins—reached a minimum level of 20.9% of its capacity (109.4 hm³). Now, however, it is reaching full capacity and began releasing water ten days ago, a phenomenon of high-pressure release not seen since 2020.

Photos: Pere Tordera

Siurana Reservoir

The Siurana Reservoir, part of the Siurana River, reached its lowest level in October 2024, with only 0.6% of its total capacity (12.4 hm³). It is now at 23.34% of its capacity.

Photos: Tjerk Van Der Meulen