The Aposelemi dam is approaching its safety limit and is going into emergency mode: not much water left for Heraklion and Lasithi.

Overview
The management of the Aposelemi Dam has entered a state of emergency. This decision follows discussions between the leadership of the Development Organisation of Crete and the authorities from the municipalities of Heraklion, Hersonissos, and Agios Nikolaos. As a result, these municipalities will receive only the minimum necessary water supply from the dam in the coming months. They will need to supplement their needs through groundwater extraction.
Recent years have posed significant challenges due to unfavourable hydrological conditions. At present, the reservoir of the Aposelemi Dam holds approximately 2,380,000 cubic metres of water, far below its full capacity of 25.3 million cubic metres. In January 2024, the water level was recorded at 3.7 million cubic metres, indicating a decrease of about 1.3 million cubic metres in just one year. This decline raises concerns as it approaches critical safety limits; a minimum of 1.5 million cubic metres must be maintained at all times within the dam to ensure its operational integrity.
The leadership of the Development Organisation of Crete has expressed that the current state of emergency necessitates collaboration among the relevant parties to effectively tackle the difficulties arising from prolonged drought conditions. There is an expectation that February will see even fewer rainfall events than in the previous year, exacerbating water scarcity issues.
The municipalities involved are expected to limit their water consumption from the Aposelemi Dam as much as possible. In doing so, they will rely heavily on their own groundwater resources while encouraging local consumers to adopt water-saving measures. Through proactive measures and cooperation, there is hope that the water levels in the dam could rise to around 3.5 million cubic metres by summer, a more manageable figure considering the ongoing challenges.
Key Points
- Emergency Management: The Aposelemi Dam is now under emergency management due to low water levels.
- Current Water Levels: The dam currently contains 2,380,000 cubic metres of water, significantly below its full capacity.
- Collaboration Required: Local authorities must work together to address the water scarcity stemming from recent dry years.
- Future Projections: Forecasts indicate that rainfall may decrease further, intensifying the need for careful resource management.
- Consumer Cooperation: Residents are urged to limit water usage and cooperate in conservation efforts.
Drought Conditions and Impacts
The ongoing drought has resulted in several implications for water management in the region:
- Limited Water Supply: The diminishing water levels present challenges for both municipal needs and agricultural demands.
- Increased Stress on Resources: With a reliance on groundwater, the pressure on local aquifers has risen.
- Need for Conservation: A community-wide effort is essential to ensure the sustainability of water supplies during this period of scarcity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What steps are being implemented to manage the emergency situation at the Aposelemis Dam?
Authorities are actively working to address the emergency management of the Aposelemis Dam. This includes regular monitoring of water levels and the structural integrity of the dam. Meetings among local officials and representatives from water management agencies are ongoing to formulate a comprehensive response plan.
What does it mean for the Aposelemis Dam to be nearing its safety limit?
The dam approaching its safety limit raises significant concerns regarding the potential for structural failure. This condition can lead to adverse effects, including risks to nearby communities and environmental impact. It signals the need for increased vigilance and preparedness among authorities.
How is the safety limit of structures like the Aposelemis Dam determined?
The safety limit of a dam is calculated based on various factors, including its design specifications, historical data on water levels, and geological assessments of the surrounding area. Engineers evaluate potential stressors and use mathematical models to predict performance under extreme conditions.
Which organisations oversee the safety and maintenance of the Aposelemis Dam?
Multiple authorities are responsible for the oversight of the Aposelemis Dam’s safety protocols. This typically includes local government agencies, environmental protection bodies, and specific water management consultants tasked with ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
Are there plans for evacuations or community assistance if the Aposelemis Dam’s safety limit is exceeded?
Contingency plans are critical in such scenarios. Authorities are developing strategies that may include evacuation procedures and support resources for affected communities. Public information campaigns will be crucial to ensure residents know how to respond in an emergency.