Newsroom
Cyprus got a welcome boost to its water reserves over the past four days, with more than 3 million cubic meters of rainwater filling the country’s dams, according to the latest measurements from the Department of Water Development. The 18 largest dams in the free areas of Cyprus are now 22.1% full.
While that’s better than last year’s low points, experts warn that more rain is still needed before summer to restore the country’s natural water wealth. At the end of 2025, the dams had dangerously low levels, some almost empty, showing just how fragile water reserves can be. Officials say they would like to see levels exceed 25% to feel comfortable going into the hot months.
Why the dams didn’t fill more
Despite the heavy rains, not all of the water could be stored. Three major desalination units, in Larnaca, Vasilikos, and Dhekelia, were running below capacity due to rough seas, forcing the Water Development Department to release water from dams into the supply to avoid shortages.
“We’ve had the Larnaca and Vasilikos units out of service since Saturday,” said Iliana Tofa, Director of the Water Development Department. “Dhekelia is running at half production. It’s been a superhuman effort to manage the available water so reservoirs don’t run dry.”
Now that the seas have calmed, production is starting to improve. Larnaca has returned to half production, and Vasilikos has also started contributing again, giving communities a bit of breathing room.
Officials stress that while the rains were a relief, water supply remains fragile, and more rain and stable desalination operations are needed to ensure Cyprus can get through the summer without shortages.
