Water reservoir levels show divergent trends in Spain and Colombia

Water reservoir levels in the Segura basin have seen a significant recovery, with storage reaching 567,119 hm³ as of September 29, 2026. This represents 50% of total capacity, effectively tripling the 188,576 hm³ (17%) recorded the previous year. The Confederación Hidrográfica del Segura (CHS) noted that while the hydrological year began with irrigation restrictions due to scarcity, a major turning point occurred in February 2026, which saw the highest monthly inflow since 1980.

In contrast, regions in Cundinamarca, Colombia, are facing critical water shortages due to the El Niño phenomenon. While the Chingaza system remains at 94.6% capacity, providing stability for Bogotá, non-regulated basins that rely solely on rainfall have dropped below 10% capacity. The Corporación Autónoma Regional de Cundinamarca (CAR) has warned that 107 out of 116 municipalities in the department have submitted contingency plans to manage the severe lack of precipitation, with projections suggesting El Niño could reach high intensity between late 2026 and early 2027.