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Cyprus is bracing for a tough summer as dam levels continue to drop, marking the third consecutive year of drought. The situation has become even more critical after a fire destroyed the Paphos desalination plant, leaving the province at greater risk of severe water shortages.
Dam Reserves at Critical Levels
According to Yianna Economidou, a senior engineer at the Water Development Department (WDD), dam reserves are now at just 25% capacity, a sharp decline from 47% this time last year.
“This year’s inflow stands at only 16 million cubic meters, making it the third worst year on record,” Economidou told Diaspora News. “And based on forecasts, the chances of enough rainfall to change the situation are extremely low.”
Desalination Struggles to Meet Demand
Cyprus relies on five desalination plants to meet its water needs, but with the Paphos facility out of action, the remaining four can only provide 70% of the required supply.
To help close the gap, officials are exploring alternative solutions, including tapping into boreholes in Asprokremmos, which could supply an additional 10,000 cubic meters of water per day.
While authorities are trying to avoid importing water from Greece—a costly measure used in past droughts—Economidou admitted that nothing is off the table if conditions worsen.
Farmers Face a 37% Cut in Water Supply
With dwindling reserves, the government is prioritizing household and livestock water supply over agriculture, in line with European Commission guidelines. As a result, farmers are being forced to make do with far less.
On January 3, 2025, the Council of Ministers approved 32.5 million cubic meters of water for irrigation, 37% less than in 2024.
With no major rainfall expected and the hot summer months ahead, Cyprus faces an uphill battle to manage its limited water supply—one that could have serious consequences for both residents and the agricultural sector.
