Cyprus is entering what is predicted to be its fourth consecutive year of drought, with senior water officials issuing a severe warning: "water reserves could run out" without substantial rainfall this winter. Dams across the island are currently holding just 11 percent of their total capacity, raising major concerns for urban and agricultural supply.

Critical Shortages Predicted for Major Cities

According to Yianna Economidou, a senior officer at the Water Development Department (WDD), the hydrological period facing Cyprus is among the most difficult in recent history. The Department of Meteorology forecasts a dry winter, potentially even drier than the last.

Economidou explicitly warned that unless significant rains arrive, water reserves in these areas could be depleted.

Paphos Fares Better Due to Desalination

The Paphos district is expected to be relatively shielded from the worst shortages in 2026 due to improvements in desalination capacity.

As a result, Paphos should face "no particular problem" with domestic water supply in the coming year.

Farmers Face Severe Restrictions

While domestic supply is being stabilized by desalination, the lack of natural reserves means water for irrigation is in extremely short supply.

The WDD has advised farmers that quantities made available for 2026 will be considerably restricted. Farmers have been urged "not to plan on planting new crops without first confirming the available water quantities."

To mitigate this challenge, the government is promoting a scheme to install small, private desalination units (generating up to 1,500 cubic metres per day). These units, eligible for subsidies and intended for both water supply and irrigation, are available to farmers and hoteliers who own coastal land. Applications for this scheme will be fast-tracked by authorities.
MFRadio.de | Editorial Office Cyprus | 24 October 2025 Source: Cyprus Mail Author: MF Editorial Team