Authorities in Catalonia warn that Barcelona may require water shipments by boat in the coming months as tighter water restrictions take effect in drought-stricken northeast Spain.
Catalonia is grappling with its most severe drought on record, with reservoirs supplying water to approximately 6 million people, including Barcelona, at just 18% of their capacity. Spanish experts attribute the prolonged drought in Catalonia to the impact of climate change, leading Barcelona to rely on Europe’s largest desalination plant and sewage treatment facilities.
The region has officially entered the “pre-emergency” phase, reducing daily water use per person to 210 liters. Municipalities are now prohibited from using drinking water for certain purposes, and water limits for industry and agriculture have been adjusted.
If reserves dip below 16%, a full-blown drought “emergency” could be imminent, with potential further restrictions. Authorities emphasize the need for significant rainfall to avert this crisis, warning that water tankers may be necessary for Barcelona, a measure last employed in 2008 during a severe drought.
Catalonia’s regional president, Pere Aragonès, acknowledges the possibility of water shipments and expresses a preference for sourcing water to southern Catalonia from the Ebro River meeting the Mediterranean Sea.
