2025 Expected to Bring Vital Rainfall to Alleviate Türkiye’s Drought Crisis
Experts are optimistic about the prospects of 2025 being a year marked by a significant increase in rainfall, potentially offering much-needed relief to Türkiye's escalating drought emergency.
Positive Outlook for Water Reserves
Doğan Yaşar, a member of the Turkish Academy of Sciences (TÜBA) Environment, Biodiversity and Climate Change Working Group, anticipates that the expected rise in precipitation could lead to the recovery of crucial reservoirs like İzmir's Tahtalı Dam, which is currently grappling with critical water shortages.
Potential Restoration of Tahtalı Dam
Yaşar expressed that a substantial uptick in rainfall could elevate the water level of Tahtalı Dam above 30 percent once again, indicating a significant improvement in the reservoir's conditions.
Current Water Scarcity at Tahtalı Dam
At present, Tahtalı Dam, responsible for supplying 30-35 percent of İzmir’s potable water, is operating at a mere 11 percent capacity.
Historical Rainfall Patterns in İzmir
İzmir typically receives half of its annual rainfall during the months of December, January, and February, with an average of 26 rainy days in this period. Recent data shows a concerning decline in water levels compared to the previous year.
Challenges of Groundwater Depletion
Yaşar cautioned against the long-term consequences of depleting underground water reserves, emphasizing the need for sustainable water management practices to avert further crises.
Call for Improved Water Resource Management
Yaşar highlighted the necessity for authorities to prioritize dam water utilization over underground reserves to ensure sustainable water access and distribution in the region.
Water Crisis in Istanbul
In addition to İzmir, Istanbul is also facing a severe drought, with reservoir levels dropping significantly due to insufficient rainfall and excessive heat.
Environmental Impacts of Drought
The visible impacts of the drought are evident at Alibey Dam in Istanbul, with once-submerged areas now exposed, revealing discarded items like vehicle tires and algae-covered dam beds.
Urgent Need for Sustainable Practices
Yaşar stressed the importance of implementing sustainable water management strategies to mitigate the effects of droughts and ensure the long-term availability of water resources for both İzmir and Istanbul.
