Dialogos

Critical Water Situation in Cyprus Dams: Heavy Rainfall Needed

Published January 23, 2026, 17:04
Critical Water Situation in Cyprus Dams: Heavy Rainfall Needed

The situation in Cyprus' dams is critical, with their capacity reaching only 11%. The contribution of recent rains has been minimal, with a collection of just 400,000 cubic meters of water. The A' Technical Engineer of the Water Development Department, Marios Chatzikostis, stated that only heavy rainfall in a short period of time can improve the situation. To be considered satisfactory, water inflow should have been continuous at 3 million cubic meters per day in January, with a total collection of 30-40 million cubic meters. Last year, dam capacity was 26% and providing water to farmers was difficult. The rainfall in Greece in recent days did not affect Cyprus. Rainfall in Cyprus was 19 millimeters, while in Attica it was 150 millimeters. To improve the situation, Cyprus needs similar rainfall, but at a rate that avoids disasters, i.e., about 100 millimeters in two days. Snowfall helps maintain the flow of rain towards the dams, as the ground does not absorb the water. However, the thirsty ground absorbed previous rains, but is now “saturated”. Nevertheless, many more rains are needed, which seems difficult, but not impossible.