Last weekend, heavy rains brought widespread destruction to Sonora, but that moisture has also filled the state’s reservoirs.

Just several months ago, levels were so low in one of Sonora’s reservoirs that Hermosillo’s water supply was endangered. A week ago, levels were still lower than where they were the year prior. And then the epic rains came, as much as half a meter in a single weekend in some places, according to the governor.

With water still rushing down the Rio Sonora toward the Molinito reservoir, 20 miles northeast of Hermosillo, officials began releasing some 40 million cubic meters of water downstream toward the Abelardo Rodriguez reservoir on the outskirts of the city.

Officials hope the effort will recharge aquifers and provide potable water to the state capital.