ACA Opens Susqueda Dam Gates as Water Levels Exceed 100% Capacity

Catalonia's internal basins reach near-full capacity as the Mayor of Susqueda criticizes the timing of the water release.

Generic image of a reservoir opening its floodgates to release water after heavy rains.
IA

Generic image of a reservoir opening its floodgates to release water after heavy rains.

The Catalan Water Agency (ACA) began controlled water release maneuvers at the Susqueda reservoir this Tuesday, March 10, after heavy rains pushed reserves to 101.45%.

The state of the Ter-Llobregat system is exceptional following years of drought. Currently, Catalonia's internal basins are at 97.51% of their total volume. This abundance of water has forced the opening of floodgates to manage excess flow and ensure infrastructure safety.

"The situation has the population worried. I regret that the ACA did not start releasing water much earlier."

Eva Viñolas · Mayor of Susqueda
In addition to Susqueda, other reservoirs like Sau in Osona are also nearly full. The iconic 11th-century church of Sant Romà de Sau is almost entirely submerged, with only the top of its bell tower visible. Other critical points include the Foix, Darnius-Boadella, and La Baells reservoirs.