Arico has joined Fasnia in imposing restrictions on water usage. This marks the second municipality in Tenerife to enforce such measures, with indications that more municipalities may follow, given expert predictions of a particularly dry summer on the island.
“In order to ensure the availability of water for human consumption for all users, a rational and responsible use of water is necessary, along with stringent measures to promote more efficient consumption,” stated the municipal authorities in a recent public announcement.
It is worth noting that recent data from the Cabildo indicates a concerning water level in the reservoirs, with only 39% of water capacity available, significantly below the expected levels of over 70% at this time of year. The resolution for a water emergency declaration by the Cabildo is supported by technical reports highlighting the impact of high thermal anomalies and the consistent deficit in rainfall over recent years. Additionally, a report by Balten on the current scenario stresses an “extreme and prolonged drought in the central regions of Tenerife.”
Implemented Measures
The adopted measures include a prohibition on washing vehicles for all except gas stations, as well as a ban on facade cleaning and refilling of swimming pools, reservoirs, or storage tanks. Furthermore, showers on beaches are prohibited, and residents are encouraged not to use potable water for irrigation purposes. Moreover, new registrations for water meters originating from local reservoirs have been temporarily halted.
