Argaka dam overflows following heavy rainfall

On the morning of Monday, March 16, the Argaka dam, located east of Polis, reached its full capacity of 0.99 million cubic meters. The overflow was caused by heavy rains that occurred over the preceding weekend. Local authorities report that water from the dam has also reached nearby watercourses, including the Yialias River. This event is considered significant for the regional agricultural sector, which has faced challenges due to long-term drought. As of the time of the event, total freshwater reserves in the Republic of Cyprus reservoirs stood at 21.8% of capacity, compared to 25.1% during the same period last year. Meteorologists forecast continued rainfall and thunderstorms in the coming days. It is expected that the Xyliatos reservoir will also reach 100% capacity shortly. Officials anticipate that current precipitation levels will help replenish national water reserves to match or exceed last year's figures.