Spain confronts reservoir overcapacity and storm‑induced floods

The Rules reservoir in Andalucía has remained at 100% capacity for a month, requiring continuous water releases. Meltwater from an unusually heavy snow season in the Sierra Nevada has kept the reservoir at record levels, prompting local authorities and agricultural groups to warn of potential impacts on irrigation and call for completion of pending canal works.

On June 17, heavy rain and associated landslides struck Galicia, flooding the villages of Vilamartín de Valdeorras and Vilardevós. Roads, including the N‑120, were cut, homes were inundated, and tap water was declared unsafe for consumption. Residents received assistance from civil protection, local councils and community groups, while officials urged swift repair of river channels to prevent future overflow.