The municipality of Didymoteicho in Greece is set to proceed with artificial water release in the Pythio region due to an unprecedented rise in water levels coming from Bulgaria's overflowing dams. Current measurements indicate that the water level has reached 5.82 meters, surpassing the alarm threshold of 5.80 meters, while the alert threshold stands at 4.80 meters. The mayor, Romylos Chatzigiannoglou, emphasized the urgency of the situation as the local authorities are now preparing to open floodgates to alleviate pressure and mitigate the risk of uncontrolled flooding.

Mayor Chatzigiannoglou expressed concerns that the main volume of water from the Bulgarian dams has yet to arrive in the area, heightening anxiety among residents and local officials. Given these developments, the regional authorities are coordinating efforts to monitor the situation closely and respond effectively. The controlled release of water is crucial in preventing catastrophic flooding, as excessive pressure from the rising water levels poses a significant threat to the local communities.

The decision to open the floodgates reflects a proactive approach by the local government to address environmental challenges stemming from cross-border water management issues. The interplay between weather conditions and dam operations in Bulgaria has direct implications for areas like Pythio, revealing the complexities of water resource management in a shared ecosystem. Preparing for possible scenarios and collaborating with neighboring regions will be integral to safeguarding the area against future flooding risks.