A slow moving DANA storm system
On September 3rd, 2023, the Toledo region, among others, was struck by a slow- moving DANA storm systems, officially referred to as upper-level isolated depressions. DANA brought more than 100 mm of rainfall in several hours. One of the area’s most severely impacted by the flooding that followed was the Arroyo de Ramabujas catchment.

The centrally located town of Nambroca and the downstream industrial district of Santa María de Benquerencia, including the Suntory factory, became heavily flooded. Bare agricultural fields were damaged by erosion, resulting in large amounts of sediments that were carried downstream. This storm demonstrated that both the Ramabujas landscape and the drainage system were inadequate to provide flood protection during such extreme events.

Climate change
Due to climate change DANA storms intensify, as could be witnessed at most recent floodings on October 30th, 2024. The regions of Valencia, Castilla-La Mancha, and Andalusia suffered significant damage, with many lives lost.



But also droughts are expected to become more frequent and severe. Industries in water-intensive sectors, such as the Suntory factory located at the downstream end of the Ramabujas catchment, are particularly vulnerable to water shortages. By investing in Nature-based Solutions (NbS) to enhance water retention in the catchment, Suntory contributes to ensure a more reliable and stable water supply. To reduce the exposure of the Ramabujas catchment to both flooding and water scarcity, this analysis seeks to address those two critical topics.

This integral water system analysis of the Ramabujas catchment examines the potential for implementing Nature-based Solutions to enhance flood resilience and water retention. The analysis comprises a combination of GIS analysis, satellite image analysis and their integration with field observations and meteorological data.

Ultimately, this analyses defines the most effective natural water retention measures to mitigate flood and drought risks while ensuring sustainable land and water management for the local population, the farmers and industrial activities in the region.