Drought Hits Farmers and Citizens in Portugal and Spain

In neighboring Spain, particularly in Andalusia, a sort of emergency state has now been declared, and European aid and water transfer from Portugal have been requested.

In Andalusia, with the continuous lack of rain, water storage has dropped to below 15% of capacity, and about 500,000 residents are already facing limited water supply. Andalusia is also preparing to bring in water by ship.

The Spanish region has promised farmers 50 million euros in emergency aid, and 150 million euros for improving drinking water provision. The central government in Madrid has also been asked for support.

At the same time, Portugal, confronted with severe drought in the southern tourist region of Algarve, announced that a reduction of 25% of water for agriculture and 15% for urban use will be implemented. 

In the Algarve, farmers, especially in the areas of Silves, Lagoa, and Portimão, will have to take emergency measures. Irrigation will only be allowed to ensure the survival of crops, particularly citrus fruits. This could lead to losses estimated at 12 million euros and uncertainty about the future of farmers in the region.