The bar chart compares the proportion of water stored in reservoirs, expressed as a percentage of their maximum capacity, in six Australian cities in October 2009 and October 2010.
Overall, water levels rose in most cities over the one-year period. Brisbane recorded the highest proportion in 2010, reaching full capacity, while Perth was the only city to experience a substantial decline and had the lowest level among the six cities.
In October 2009, Brisbane and Darwin had the highest reservoir levels, both standing at 75% of capacity. Perth followed with a figure slightly above half capacity at 51%, while Canberra and Sydney recorded similar levels of approximately 50% and 49% respectively. In contrast, Melbourne had the lowest proportion of stored water, at only 35%.
By October 2010, water storage had increased in most locations. Brisbane experienced the most significant rise, climbing from 75% to 100%. Canberra also saw a notable increase from 50% to 73%, while Darwin rose modestly to 80%. Melbourne recorded a moderate growth, reaching 45%. In comparison, Sydney’s reservoir level remained stable at 49%, whereas Perth showed a sharp decline, falling dramatically from 51% to just 26%.