The Portuguese Environment Agency (APA), a partner in the European project RISC_PLUS, led by the Minho-Sil River Basin Authority (CHMS), has completed a new phase of installation and modernization of hydrometeorological stations in the Minho and Lima river basins. The work enabled the expansion and strengthening of the monitoring network through the installation of four entirely new stations in Cavada (Caminha), Cerdeira (Vila Nova de Cerveira), Merufe (Monção) and Segude (Monção).

In addition, the equipment and teletransmission systems of three other existing stations, belonging to APA’s Water Resources Monitoring and Alert System (SVARH), were modernized. These stations are located in Extremo (Arcos de Valdevez), Nogueira (Viana do Castelo) and Vila Nova de Cerveira.

All stations incorporate state-of-the-art sensors and technology capable of continuously recording key parameters such as precipitation, flow, temperature, humidity and water level. These data will improve the accuracy of hydrological models and drive the development of more effective early-warning systems for extreme events such as floods and droughts.

The installation of these seven stations represents an important step forward in improving shared hydrological knowledge and strengthening technical cooperation between Spain and Portugal in the international river basins of the Minho and Limia/Lima rivers.

This project, co-financed by the Interreg Spain-Portugal (POCTEP) 2021–2027 programme of the European Union, promotes solutions based on scientific knowledge, cross-border cooperation and technological innovation to ensure efficient and sustainable water management in a context shaped by climate change.