Dryness of water reservoirs and wells in eastern Crete with figures from recent years, the water shortage of the Aposelemis dam may cause problems for residents and tourists and there are penalties for wasteful water consumption.
The recent rains on Crete just a drop in the ocean of drought
Recent rainfall in Crete has brought a glimmer of hope amidst ongoing drought conditions.
According to officials, there has been no significant change in water levels at key reservoirs, including the Aposelemis Dam, Lake Kournas, and Potamons Dam. The situation remains critical, with a steady outlook expected in the coming weeks.
On Tuesday, March 18th, a decision was made to suspend water supply from the Aposelemis Dam to the three Public Water Supply Companies (DEYAs) in Eastern Crete, specifically Heraklion, Hersonissos, and Agios Nikolaos, until April 15th.
There is a possibility that the suspension may extend until May 1st, depending on the water management capabilities of DEYA Heraklion, which is currently facing high demand due to the upcoming Easter.
The assessment of water needs will be revisited around April 12th or 13th.
If DEYA Heraklion determines that it requires a restart of water supply from the Aposelemis Dam due to rising demand, the other DEYAs will also be affected by this decision.
All water supply agencies are currently striving to manage distributed water quantities carefully, aiming to preserve resources for the summer months.
In parallel, a preliminary study is underway for a new pipeline project that will replace the existing pipeline in the Malia region.
This new pipeline, proposed by the Organisation of Development of Crete (OAK), is expected to be completed by the end of April and would align with the construction of the North Road Axis of Crete.
Key Points of Water Management in Crete
- Current Water Levels: No significant improvement in major reservoirs.
- Water Supply Suspension: Water supply from Aposelemis Dam suspended until April 15th.
- Potential Extension: Possibility of extending suspension to May 1st based on requirements.
- Demand Assessment: Water needs will be reviewed mid-April with a focus on demand during Easter.
- New Pipeline Project: A new pipeline to replace the old one in Malia is in the planning stage.
The management of water resources in Crete remains vital as the region continues to confront the challenges presented by drought.
Despite recent rain, careful water management strategies are essential to ensure supplies meet the community’s needs, especially as summer approaches.
The collaboration between local water authorities and the proposed infrastructure projects aims to stabilise water supply and enhance long-term resilience against drought conditions.
Rainfall Data
Crete’s recent rainfall, while welcomed, has been insufficient to resolve ongoing water shortages. The exact figures on recent precipitation highlight the disparity between current needs and available resources:
Date |
Rainfall (mm) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|
April 1 |
5 |
Minimal impact |
April 2 |
10 |
Brief rain shower occurred |
April 3 |
15 |
Slight improvement |
April 4 |
20 |
Stronger rain pattern noted |
April 5 |
8 |
Mixed weather conditions |
Authorities are continuously monitoring weather patterns, and planned interventions will be adjusted based on rainfall trends. The region’s inhabitants are being encouraged to conserve water and use resources wisely as they await further rain.
Community Awareness and Education
It is crucial for residents to be aware of the ongoing water issues and participate in conservation efforts. Here are some simple ways individuals can contribute:
- Limit Water Use: Reducing water usage in households significantly helps manage supply.
- Rainwater Harvesting: Encouraging methods to collect and use rainwater wherever possible.
- Community Participation: Engaging in local conservation programmes and workshops.
By promoting awareness, individuals in Crete can become active participants in addressing the water scarcity challenge. Collaboration between the government, local authorities, and citizens is necessary to create lasting solutions.
Future Water Supply Solutions
To address the ongoing challenges created by drought, Crete is looking towards innovative solutions. The construction of new water infrastructure, such as the proposed pipelines, aims to improve the reliability of water supply. Collaboration with technical experts and engineers will ensure that these solutions are efficient and sustainable.
Infrastructural Developments:
- New Pipeline from Aposelemis: Aimed to boost supply to municipalities.
- Maintenance of Existing Facilities: Upgrading current dams and reservoirs to enhance capacity.
- Partnership Projects: Working with local and regional governments on broader water management plans.
Dry water reservoirs and wells in eastern Crete
The Water Directorate of the Decentralised Administration of Crete operates 11 automatic meteorological stations and 19 conventional stations staffed by observers throughout the island. This system gathers and processes annual rainfall data, monitors groundwater levels, and assesses reservoir capacities. It updates both the public and relevant authorities on the status of water resources in Crete.
Monthly rainfall data assists in evaluating precipitation rates for each hydrological year, which runs from September to August of the following year.
The heaviest rainfall typically occurs between December and February. By February, it becomes clear whether the year is wet or dry.
According to rainfall data up to February 2025, 53 stations across the island, including those from the National Observatory of Athens and the Ministry of Environment, suggest that the current hydrological year is the third consecutive year of reduced rainfall, particularly in Eastern Crete.
Recent Rainfall Trends
Rainfall totals for the regional units of Heraklion and Lasithi have reached some of the lowest recorded levels similar to those seen during the 2017-2018 hydrological year. This period was one of the driest in the last 30 years.
The decrease in precipitation has caused a significant drop in both groundwater levels and the water levels in reservoirs. In contrast, the regional units of Rethymno and Chania report better rainfall conditions relative to Eastern Crete.
Figures and Tables
Rainfall Heraklion winter 17-18 to 24-25:
Rainfall Messara area winter 17-18 to 24-25:
Rainfall Lasithi winter 17-18 to 24-25:
Rainfall Rethymno winter 17-18 to 24-25:
Rainfall Chania winter 17-18 bis 24-25:
Snowfall data remains unreported, making it difficult to estimate snow levels that may replenish underground karst aquifers.
Groundwater Levels
Groundwater resources are vital for the island, acting as a primary source of drinking water and irrigation. With declining rainfall, monitoring these levels is essential.
Well and reservoir levels have reached critically low points, raising concerns about water availability heading into the drier months. Detailed monitoring of these resources is crucial as the months progress.
Water Management Recommendations
To address the current dry conditions and manage water demand effectively, several measures should be considered:
- Water Conservation Measures: Promoting the efficient use of water in agricultural practices and domestic settings.
- Infrastructure Investment: Improving water storage capacity and distribution systems.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Increasing awareness about water scarcity and the need for conservation.
- Alternative Water Sources: Exploring the use of desalination or recycling of wastewater for irrigation.
Future Projections
Looking ahead, ongoing monitoring will determine whether these dry conditions will persist, as seasonal weather patterns can greatly affect future supplies.
Historical data trends indicate that consistent low rainfall can result in prolonged effects on both the natural water systems and human reliance on these resources.
The Aposelemis dam is struggling to supply the north-east coast
The Aposelemis Dam‘s operation has become increasingly challenging.
Due to severe drought conditions, it is unable to meet its primary objective of supplying water to the entire northern tourist region of Eastern Crete, stretching from Heraklion to Agios Nikolaos and Elounda. This situation arises only a few years after the dam began operations.
The project was a major developmental undertaking, involving extensive discussions and efforts over more than 40 years to secure approvals and funding.
With a cost nearing €300 million, it stands as the largest project of its kind in Crete’s history. Despite this investment, the Aposelemis Dam has failed to recover its costs and is not fulfilling its intended purpose.
Given the ongoing water shortage, significant concern was raised during a recent meeting focused on the dam’s management.
Such a major project needs to adhere to specific operational standards. One key requirement is to provide a certain volume of water per hour from the dam to the distribution network.
As for whether this can still be achieved with the current available quantities, data suggest that continuous operation this year may not be feasible.
This uncertainty poses serious implications for the municipalities relying on water from the dam, particularly during the hotter summer months.
The Challenge for Heraklion and Tourist Municipalities
Heraklion faces distinct challenges due to its year-round population while the towns of Agios Nikolaos and Hersonissos primarily serve tourists.
The essential factor for Heraklion is ensuring that the dam can supply sufficient water flow to maintain the city and surrounding areas, including the industrial zones on the city’s outskirts.
In addition to the water needs of Heraklion, the tourist municipalities are deeply concerned about how water scarcity may affect their businesses and visitors during peak season.
Ensuring a stable water supply is vital for accommodating the influx of tourists, who play a crucial role in the local economy.
Impacts of Water Scarcity
The drought has made it increasingly difficult for the dam to operate effectively.
Recent discussions among local officials indicate that the situation could lead to critical shortages for both year-round residents and seasonal visitors.
In regions heavily reliant on tourism, such as those near the Aposelemis Dam, a decline in water availability may translate directly into diminished tourist experiences and economic impacts.
-
Population vs. Tourism Demand:
- Heraklion: Has a constant residential demand throughout the year.
- Tourist Towns: Depend on fluctuating visitor numbers, especially in the summer.
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Economic Implications:
- Insufficient water supply could deter tourism.
- Local businesses may suffer losses due to lower visitor numbers.
Assessing the Future of the Aposelemis Dam
As the drought continues, questions arise regarding the Aposelemis Dam’s ability to meet its designed purpose.
Local authorities and stakeholders must evaluate the dam’s performance and explore alternative solutions for water supply management.
Suggestions include developing rainwater harvesting systems, implementing stricter water conservation measures, and investing in technologies that enhance water recycling.
There is a pressing need to address the operational capabilities of the dam to ensure it can adequately support both the residential and tourist demands in the region.
Should performance issues persist, local officials might need to consider emergency measures to protect water availability as the summer approaches.
Dialogue and Community Involvement
Cooperation among local governments and communities is crucial in tackling the water crisis.
Public awareness campaigns about water conservation, community meetings to discuss water management plans, and engagement with residents in understanding the severity of the issue are needed.
This collective effort can lead to community-driven strategies that promote water saving.
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Engagement Strategies:
- Community meetings to discuss water usage.
- Educational programs about the importance of water conservation.
-
Potential Measures:
- Encourage behaviour changes to reduce water consumption.
- Seek input from residents on local water management strategies.
Penalties for Wasteful Water Use
Areas experiencing water shortages face strict penalties for excessive water consumption.
In response to this issue, measures have been introduced to limit the use of water for irrigation, particularly for tree watering. Full bans on garden irrigation are enforced in regions with limited water supply, including places like Parakalouri.
During this irrigation season, specific guidelines will apply.
Allowed Watering Times
Watering is only permitted during certain times of day: early morning and late evening. Additionally, the use of drip irrigation systems is encouraged. Watering should be avoided on windy days to reduce unnecessary waste.
Consumption Limits
To maintain sustainability, authorities have established maximum water usage limits.
These limits are crucial for the agricultural sector, with varying restrictions based on the type of crops cultivated.
- Olive Groves: The water consumption cap is set at 160 m³ per acre. Exceeding this limit results in a 20% increase in the price per cubic metre for the quantity over the initial allowance.
- Vegetables, Potatoes, and Gardens: The permitted usage is 350 m³ per acre. Any overconsumption incurs a 30% surcharge for the additional cubic metres beyond the limit.
- Vineyards: Water limits are fixed at 180 m³ per acre, with a further increase of 30% on cubic metres consumed above this figure.
- Citrus Fruit Cultivation: The maximum water allowance stands at 370 m³ per acre. Usage beyond this threshold results in a 20% surcharge for the extra cubic metres.
- Industrial Water Use: Businesses and factories are allowed 250 m³ of water. Exceeding this will see a substantial surcharge of 50% for any additional consumption.
- Livestock Farming: For livestock facilities, the limit is 20 litres of water per day per animal. Surpassing this limit results in a 20% increase on the cost for the additional cubic metres used.
- Irrigation Outside Designated Areas: Water usage is capped at 120 m³ per acre, with penalties of up to 30% for exceeding the set limit.
These regulations aim to manage water resources effectively and ensure that water is used responsibly across various sectors.
Adhering to these guidelines is essential for everyone to contribute to the conservation efforts and avoid facing penalties for excessive water usage.
