Water reserves in the Balearic Islands remained at 44% during October, although Ibiza recorded the largest increase in the archipelago, rising from 26% to 39% thanks to the heavy rains caused by the DANA Alice, as reported by the Ministry of the Sea and Water Cycle. In the case of Formentera, the situation has also improved and the island remains the only “normal” demand unit.
Strong impact of the DANA on the Pitiusas islands
Last October’s rains were especially intense in Ibiza and Formentera, where the State Meteorological Agency (Aemet) recorded record values. At Ibiza airport, 89.4 liters per square meter fell in a single day, while Formentera reached 78.8 l/m², the highest records since data has been available (2015). The Pitiusas as a whole accumulated 139% of rainfall compared to the average, which has allowed a significant recovery of the aquifers after several months of deficit.
Ibiza still on water alert
Despite the improvement, Ibiza continues to be in an alert situation, according to the Conselleria’s indicators, while Formentera maintains a normal situation. The autonomous department reminds that the changes of scenario are not automatic: to go from alert to pre-alert, the indicators must remain two consecutive months within the upper range. Mallorca decreases slightly from 45% to 44%, and Menorca improves from 41% to 43%.
Encouraging developments for November
The Government’s technicians foresee a new increase in reserves during November, if the autumn rains maintain their usual behavior. The average temperature for the month was 19.6 degrees, 0.7 degrees above normal, making it a warm October, according to the Aemet.
