The current state of Cyprus’ dams is causing widespread concern and anticipation of an impending water crisis, particularly as the summer season approaches.
With water levels already plummeting to less than half of their capacity, standing at a mere 44.8%, fears are growing that certain dams, such as Argaka and Kalavasos, could soon hit alarmingly low levels, potentially revealing their bottoms as the capacity drops below 30%.
The situation is exacerbated by the fact that the rainy months have passed, and the onset of summer promises even less inflow into the dams, while water demands continue to rise.
According to data from the Department of Water Development, the total capacity of Cyprus’ dams is 290 million cubic meters, with only 130.2 million cubic meters of water currently stored. This marks a significant decrease from last year’s levels, which were at 68% capacity with 197 million cubic meters of water.
Kouris, the island’s largest dam, is particularly hard-hit, with water levels dwindling to just 38.4% of its capacity, compared to nearly double that amount a year ago.
The situation is dire across the board, with dams in the Southern Conveyor system at 40.8% capacity, those in Paphos at 52.4%, and those in Chrysochous at 52.1%. Even the dams in Nicosia, which fared relatively better, are at only 50.3% capacity.
The implications of these dwindling water reserves are severe, with agricultural, industrial, and domestic water supplies all at risk.
Residents are urged to conserve water wherever possible, as meteorological forecasts offer little hope of significant rainfall in the coming days.
Efforts to mitigate the crisis are underway, but without substantial inflows or significant rainfall, the situation remains precarious. As temperatures rise and water levels continue to fall, the spectre of a severe water shortage looms large over Cyprus.
