Cyprus is grappling with one of the most severe droughts in over a century, sparking urgent measures by authorities to manage the water crisis. Despite recent heavy rains providing slight relief, experts warn that the situation remains critical, with water levels in reservoirs dropping to historic lows. The government has asked residents to cut their water consumption by at least 10%, effectively advising them to use running water for about two minutes less every day than they typically would. This comes just as the tourist season is about to begin, heightening concerns over water availability during a peak demand period.

In response to this crisis, the Cypriot government has introduced a package of emergency measures with an allocation of 31 million euros aimed at mitigating the effects of the drought. These actions reflect the historic scale of the drought’s impact on the island, as it not only affects domestic water supplies but also poses risks to the agricultural sector. The measures taken are crucial for both the immediate response to the current situation and long-term planning to safeguard water resources in the face of climate change, which has been exacerbating the island's water challenges.

Experts emphasize that the ongoing water shortages are not just a seasonal issue but part of a broader trend influenced by climate change, which is increasingly stressing Cyprus' already limited water resources. Plans for future improvements in Cyprus' water management will need to address these climate impacts, ensuring the island can sustain both its population and its vital tourism industry in the years ahead.