The issue of drought in the Canary Islands is expected to worsen in the upcoming years. Experts have emphasised the urgency of finding solutions, a step that certain municipalities in the area have already taken in the northern region of Tenerife. The combination of heatwaves and insufficient rainfall poses a significant threat.
In Tenerife, the situation is deteriorating as water reserves reach critical levels, jeopardising the water supply for both the population and the already drought-affected agriculture sector. This is compounded by the aftermath of last year’s forest fire, which was the most devastating in four decades.
Despite recent rainfall and the snow-covered Teide due to the DANA phenomenon, providing some hope, the Tenerife Council has declared a water emergency in anticipation of an exceptionally challenging summer.
Faced with this reality, mayors in the North have initiated or are contemplating measures to alleviate water scarcity. While common actions such as increased surveillance to prevent losses and awareness campaigns are being carried out across all municipalities, some leaders have opted for specific measures.
In towns like Icod de los Vinos, Los Silos, and El Tanque, decrees have been enacted to enforce restrictions. For instance, in Icod de los Vinos, non-essential uses of potable water, like watering gardens and establishing new plantations, have been curtailed. Similarly, Los Silos has restricted the use of potable water to essential needs and prohibited its use in gardens, farming activities, and the cleaning of streets and vehicles.
In other areas such as La Matanza de Acentejo, emergency water decrees are being prepared to encourage a more judicious use of water, discouraging non-essential activities like washing vehicles or filling pools.
In Puerto de la Cruz, efforts are being made to explore alternative water sources to avoid consumption restrictions. Furthermore, enhancements are being made to the distribution network to enhance its efficiency.
Despite these efforts, certain municipalities like La Orotava are concentrating on optimising water usage and advocating for conservation by initiatives such as enhancing the irrigation system and promoting the cultivation of water-efficient plants.
