Critical drop in water levels in Istanbul's dams

The occupancy rate of the dams supplying water to Istanbul has shown a serious decline recently. The dam occupancy rate, which was at 57 percent on August 3, 2024, has dropped to 51.36 percent within 13 days.

The occupancy rate of the Alibey Dam, which stands out as Istanbul's driest dam, has fallen to 17.82 percent. This situation, where a large part of the Mağlova aqueduct has emerged, was also revealed by aerial footage. 

With the decrease in the water level of the dams, waste such as tires, plastic containers, and shoes has appeared in the dried-up dam areas. In addition, the cracked state of the dried soil revealed the level to which the drought has reached.

Unconscious water consumption during the summer months and rapid evaporation caused by high temperatures, combined with a rainless summer season, continue to cause water levels to decrease rapidly. Experts warn that water consumption should be managed carefully during the summer months.

According to the latest data, the occupancy rates of Istanbul's dams are listed as follows:

Ömerli Dam: 53.14 percent

Terkos Dam: 65.24 percent (has the highest occupancy rate)

Büyükçekmece Lake: 49.66 percent

Darlık Dam: 55.43 percent

Sazlıdere Dam: 52.16 percent

Kazandere Dam: 18.6 percent (second lowest occupancy rate)

Papuçdere Dam: 31.62 percent

Elmalı Dam: 59.17 percent

Istrancalar Dam: 33.43 percent