UK holidaymakers are being cautioned of “severe” problems anticipated in Spain as the country grapples with ongoing droughts. Amid the climate crisis, travellers from the European Union destined for Spain’s sought-after destinations are warned to prepare for tough conditions.
Tourism expert Christian Petzold has issued a stark statement, remarking: “Droughts are nothing new to Spain, especially in the southern and central parts of the country, which can affect anything from water availability to local agricultural production.”
He emphasised the importance for visitors to stay informed: “It is very important that travellers, especially business or corporate events travellers, be informed about these conditions, as they may affect the logistics of planning, including accommodations, transportation, and outdoor activities.”
Petzold also advised tourists should make themselves aware of any potential water restrictions in their destination, particularly in areas more affected by drought. For alternative destinations, Christian put forward “the cooler, more rainy north: Galicia or the Basque Country,” highlighting their “lush landscapes and bustling cities” as ideal for both business and leisure trips.
The latest report from the Junta indicates two zones are now classified under “serious” drought conditions, though reservoir levels in the province have stabilised, currently holding 70 million cubic metres more than the previous year, with the Guadalteba, Guadalhorce and Conde de Guadalhorce reservoirs containing 30, 17 and 28 million cubic metres each, respectively, reports Birmingham Live.
La Axarquía’s La Viñuela reservoir is currently at around 36 million cubic metres, a level described as “serious” in a recent report. The region reportedly has sufficient water for urban supply for the next 18 months, with Malaga city facing a similar situation.
According to the Public Sanitation and Supply association (AEOPAS), sixteen municipalities across the Andalucian interior, Almeria, and the Marina Baja of Alicante are still grappling with severe drought conditions. Water levels in the Guadalquivir, Segura, Jucar, Guadalete-Barbate, and Catalunya regions are also causing concern.
“Our reserves are slowly getting better but there are marked differences between regions, showing the need for different water management policies,” AEOPAS stated in their report.