The Garonne was forced to enter low water early by the scorching wave. The river reached its low water target in Tarn-et-Garonne, Lamagistere and Tonneins at the end of June. This phenomenon took place in Toulouse on July 6. It was a rare crossing between June and July.
This situation was only observed at the Joint Syndicate of Studies and Development of the Garonne, (Smeag), three times in sixty-years. This happened in 1989, 2006, and 2022. This is a sign of an intensely low and long-lasting year. Some rain in July provided a brief and positive respite. This helped slow down the rapid decline in flows at the foothills of the Pyrenean Pyrenean Pyrenean. With the announcement of climate disruptions, the situation was predictable.
Low water support has been addressed by measures. From July 1 through October 31, 79 million cubic metres of water can be mobilized by 14 reservoirs, mainly hydroelectrically managed by EDF in Pyrenees or on the Tarn. This includes 30% more volume and 120% more flow. Intervention at the highest level of low water levels. These tools help to limit conflicts between users and ensure water is available for proper functioning of the environment. They also prevent restrictions on activities or premature depletion stocks.
It is necessary to take the appropriate measures when early drying is resumed. This is a stressful situation. The forecast for the next ten days predicts 10 scorching days. To avoid restrictions on usage, the Smeag and its partners have decided to begin replenishment of low-water support water to Portet-sur-Garonne (31) and Lamagistere (82) at midnight this Friday, July 8.
Recall that support water releases at low water troughs can account for up to half of observed flow.
