A severe water shortage is gripping Iran, with rainfall reaching historic lows and reservoir levels plummeting to critical levels. The capital Tehran has recorded just 1mm of precipitation this year, compared to an annual average of 350mm during the 1990s. This marks the sixth consecutive year of drought conditions affecting the nation.
Official reports indicate that 32 dams across the country now hold less than 5% of their capacity, a dramatic increase from just eight dams previously facing such critical levels. Snow cover has virtually disappeared, showing a 98.6% reduction compared to the same period last year.
Authorities have responded with cloud seeding operations, attempting to artificially induce rainfall by dispersing particles into the atmosphere. Meanwhile, many citizens have turned to organized prayer gatherings, seeking divine intervention to end the drought.
The crisis has sparked intense debate about its underlying causes. Some religious figures have suggested moral and cultural failings might be responsible, while government supporters question why nations with different social norms experience more favorable climate conditions.
Water management experts warn the situation is reaching critical levels. One academic specializing in water resources raised the possibility that parts of Tehran might require evacuation if dam water supplies completely diminish. Another expert questioned where alternative accommodation could be found for millions of potential evacuees.
Despite the gravity of the situation, visible emergency measures remain limited. Tehran has implemented reduced water pressure during nighttime hours, and officials report residents have voluntarily cut consumption by 10%, though a 20% reduction is considered necessary.
The crisis has prompted growing environmental awareness, with experts noting increased public interest in practical solutions for adapting to changing climate patterns. The situation has made clear that previous approaches to water management require fundamental reassessment as the nation faces what many describe as its most severe environmental challenge in modern history.
