Water inflow into Cypriot reservoirs remains at worryingly low levels
Water inflow into Cypriot reservoirs remains at worryingly low levels
The inflow into Cyprus' reservoirs has been at an extremely critical level since October, and
existing water reserves continue to shrink as consumption is significantly higher than replenishment. This was pointed out by the chief technical engineer of the water authority on Monday.
existing water reserves continue to shrink as consumption is significantly higher than replenishment. This was pointed out by the chief technical engineer of the water authority on Monday.
According to his information, the total inflow since October 1 amounts to only around 1.7 million cubic meters - an amount that is hardly significant in view of the actual demand. Accordingly, the filling level of the reservoirs continues to fall because more water is withdrawn than is recharged.
For the situation to ease noticeably, average inflows of around 10 to 12 million cubic metres would be required. A look at the long-term data shows the drama of the situation: In the months of October to December, the average inflow over the past 30 to 35 years was around 13 million cubic meters. This year is a long way from that.
Above-average rainfall was recorded in some regions – especially in the coastal area of Polis Chrysochous with around 170 percent of the normal value. In Nicosia and Athienou, the values were also around 140 percent, in Frenaros around 115 percent. However, there are no dams in these areas, so the additional rain could not help replenish the water reserves.
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In order to improve the situation in the long term, longer-lasting, intensive rainfall is necessary - and in the right regions. Precipitation in the mountain regions and in the catchment areas of the large reservoirs is decisive, not on the coasts. The goal is to cover at least the needs of the coming year and ideally also to build up reserves for another year.
Dry periods are not an exceptional case in Cyprus, but a recurring phenomenon that often lasts up to three years. In the meantime, they are already in the fourth year in a row with an inadequate water supply. Nevertheless, there is hope that the year could still develop into a rainy one in order to store enough water for all consumers - especially for agriculture, which has suffered greatly from water shortages in recent years.
Regardless of the current weather situation, he appealed to the population to use water consistently and sparingly. Saving water must become an integral part of everyday life.
Droughts would not be absent in Cyprus in the future, and climate change would further exacerbate the situation. This makes it all the more important to use this vital resource responsibly and sustainably in the long term.
Author: MFRadio editorial team
Source: CNA
