In a concerning report from Murcia, Spain, the regional government has identified 622 areas severely affected by drought, covering approximately 20,000 hectares, which is about 6.5% of the region's forested land. This drought is deemed the worst since 1994 and is exacerbated by climate change.
Juan María Vázquez, the regional Minister of Environment, highlighted that the first signs of drought were observed in January. The coastal strip, pre-coastal zone, and the Segura Valley are particularly hard-hit. The government is calling for urgent collaboration at both state and European levels to address this environmental crisis, which poses a global threat.
Recent hydrological data shows that precipitation levels have dropped to 137 liters per square meter, a staggering 57% below normal, with some areas experiencing conditions akin to those in deserts. This lack of rainfall and rising temperatures are critically impacting soil moisture, vital for the region's flora and trees.
To combat these issues, the regional government has allocated over 6 million euros for this year's drought mitigation efforts. This includes a significant reallocation of funds for forest adaptation and pest control, with 250 forest brigade members prioritized to manage damage and pests.
Vázquez outlined a three-pronged strategy to tackle this unprecedented drought: improving decision-making processes, enhancing monitoring systems, and increasing on-the-ground forestry work. The government aims to mobilize over 400 personnel to ensure the health of the forest ecosystem and safeguard public safety.