Overflow of dams in Paphos district amid ongoing water concerns in Cyprus

Recent rainfall has led to the overflow of three dams in the Paphos district: Ayia Marina Chrysochous, Argaka, and Pomos. Despite these positive developments, officials including Environment Commissioner Antonia Theodosiou and Paphos Water Development Department head Charis Kasioulis warn against complacency. The Asprokremmos dam, the second largest in Cyprus with a total capacity of 51.2 million cubic meters, is currently at 32.5% capacity, holding approximately 17 million cubic meters. Experts emphasize that Cyprus remains vulnerable to long-term water scarcity, climate change, and drought. While the dams in the Chrysochous irrigation project have reached capacity, water management continues to face challenges regarding evaporation and the need for modern infrastructure. Authorities urge the public to avoid water waste, noting that despite satisfactory rainfall in March, the threat of shortages in irrigation and drinking water persists. The government is also balancing water retention in dams with the necessary flow to the sea to maintain marine ecosystems.