Drought Risk Persists Despite Full Dams
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While dam water levels in Turkey have risen to 68.9% due to increased rainfall, experts warn that a single good water year does not alter long-term drought trends.
Active Occupancy Rate in Dams Increased
According to data from the General Directorate of State Hydraulic Works (DSİ), rainfall across Turkey has shown a 75.4% increase compared to the same period last year. Thanks to precipitation, which is 29% above the long-term average, the active occupancy rate in dams has risen from 41.1% to 68.9%. The active water volume in dam basins has increased from 38.9 billion cubic meters to 65.2 billion cubic meters, according to technical data shared by the institution. Although this seasonal increase provides significant relief for surface waters, experts emphasize that hydrological planning must continue in light of long-term data.
Climate Trend and Water Risk Warning
Prof. Dr. Mikdat Kadıoğlu, a faculty member at Istanbul Technical University's Department of Climate Science and Meteorology Engineering, made the following assessment regarding the climate trend:
"A single good water year does not change the climate trend. The risk continues."
Kadıoğlu also warned that soil moisture deficit and torrential rainfall patterns directly affect water retention, stating:
"Increased rainfall does not mean the same amount of water enters the dam."
Kadıoğlu highlighted that the initial rains following a prolonged drought period are absorbed by the soil, and that short, intense downpours can be lost from the system as floods before reaching the dams.