Ebro River Rises in La Rioja: No Major Flooding Reported (February 2026)

Logroño, La Rioja – The Ebro River experienced increased flow and higher water levels throughout La Rioja on Sunday, February 15, 2026, but thankfully, the surge did not result in significant flooding or widespread damage, according to reports. A simultaneous rise in water levels was observed along the river, prompting monitoring and preparedness efforts from local authorities.

The initial surge entered La Rioja through Briñas, where the river reached a height of 3.52 meters at 8:00 AM, slightly exceeding the yellow alert level. Despite this, major overflows were limited, with only the walkway between Briñas and Haro experiencing minor inundation. But, agricultural lands near the N-124 highway in Haro, an area typically affected by rising waters, did experience some impact. By late afternoon, the water level in Briñas had receded to 2.41 meters.

As the afternoon progressed, Logroño began to experience the peak of the river’s rise. Authorities had been anticipating a maximum flow rate of approximately 845 cubic meters per second around 5:30 PM, but the actual peak was lower than predicted. At 5:45 PM, the river’s flow rate at Logroño measured 751 cubic meters per second, with a height of 3.5 meters. The water levels then stabilized and began to decrease, though another similar episode is expected in the early hours of Tuesday to Wednesday, potentially exceeding 800 cubic meters per second in Logroño.

The increased river flow was noticeable throughout the day. A walk through Logroño’s Parque del Ebro revealed the water was closer to pedestrian areas than usual. Despite the higher water levels, the park remained a popular destination, attracting locals and tourists alike. Ricardo and Maricarmen, residents of Logroño, were enjoying birdwatching, noting that they had seen the river at much higher levels in the past. “We came to see the birds,” they said, adding that the river had been significantly higher on other occasions.

The Paseo de La Florida, located near the hydroelectric power plant and in front of the Puente de Piedra, drew a large crowd of onlookers eager to capture the river’s force. Conversations centered around comparisons to previous high-water events, with many recalling times when the water had nearly reached the top of the bridge arches. Visitors like Sara, Marian, and Chelo, who traveled from the Basque Country town of Oyón, described the Ebro as “very beautiful” but acknowledged having seen it at higher levels, with the nearby island almost completely submerged during past floods.

River Levels and Impacted Areas

The increased water flow also affected the area around the recently restored Puente Mantible, where the river was visibly higher. While the rise in the Ebro did not cause widespread disruption, it served as a reminder of the river’s potential power and the importance of ongoing monitoring and preparedness. The affected agricultural lands near the N-124 highway in Haro experienced some impact, as this area is particularly vulnerable to flooding during periods of high water.

Authorities remain vigilant, anticipating another potential surge in the early hours of Tuesday and Wednesday. The expected flow rate in Logroño could exceed 800 cubic meters per second during this period. Residents are advised to stay informed and exercise caution near the riverbanks.

The Ebro River, a vital waterway for La Rioja and surrounding regions, continues to be closely monitored. The region’s wine-growing areas, particularly those along the riverbanks, are dependent on the river’s health and stability. The Wine Trail of Ebro River (Briñas) highlights the region’s connection to the river and its importance to the local economy.

As the river levels are expected to fluctuate in the coming days, continued monitoring and preparedness will be crucial. Residents and visitors are encouraged to stay informed about the latest updates and heed any warnings issued by local authorities. The situation remains under observation, and further updates will be provided as they become available.

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