Algarve reservoirs at 74% as new hydrological year begins

The Algarve enters the new hydrological year with its six main reservoirs at 74% capacity, holding 328 million cubic metres of water, 13 million more than a year ago, according to Portugal's environment agency APA. Its president, José Pimenta Machado, said the improved reserves should not slow investments meant to secure water supply, citing priorities such as cutting losses in urban and agricultural networks, advancing a desalination project, and building the Pomarão-Odeleite reservoir link. He stressed that water saving must remain a priority across homes, tourism, agriculture and services, arguing resilience must be built before drought strikes.