Water reserves in Cyprus reservoirs have fallen to critical levels

Water levels in Cyprus’s reservoirs continue to decline and have already reached alarming values. As of February 9, the island’s dams hold 39.9 million cubic meters of water, which is about 13% of total capacity. This is almost half the level recorded during the same period last year.

The most difficult situation is observed at the island’s largest reservoir, Kouris. Its fill level stands at just 12.17% (14 million cubic meters out of a maximum capacity of 115 million). Over the past three days, inflows amounted to only 0.25 million cubic meters, and since October — just over 3.2 million.

A significant drop in water levels is also recorded in other major reservoirs:

• Asprokremmos — 12.46% (compared with 27.85% a year ago),
• Evretou — 17.88% (previously 25.13%),
• Kannaviou — 16.23% (previously 28.66%).

According to the Department of Water Development, no significant increase in water reserves is expected in the coming months. Traditionally, from March onward, inflows into the dams almost cease, and current levels are already lower than last year’s.

Experts warn that Cyprus is entering another year of drought, and low water levels could affect water supply, agriculture, and resource use during the summer period.