The Uren Dam in Shinshiro, Aichi Prefecture has reached a 0% water storage level amid a record drought, exposing the lake bed and remnants of a submerged bridge.
The Uren Dam, a vital water source for the Toyokawa Water System in Aichi Prefecture, has been severely affected by a significant lack of rainfall, reaching a critical storage level of 0% as of the 17th. This marks the first time since May 2019 that the dam's water storage has completely drained, and recent weather reports indicate that March's rainfall total has been just 18 millimeters, less than 10% of the average for this time of year. The unprecedented drought conditions have not only highlighted the environmental challenges but have also exposed archaeological features, such as the remains of a bridge submerged due to the dam's construction.
In response to this alarming situation, the Water Resources Agency has initiated emergency measures by pumping up "retained water" from below the dam's intake, a drastic action that marks the first implementation of such measures since the dam's operations began in 1968. This emergency response underlines the urgency of the situation and aims to mitigate further impact on water supply in the region.
Furthermore, tight water restrictions have been imposed in the Toyokawa Water System effective from the 17th, mandating a 25% reduction in municipal water and up to 45% for agricultural and industrial uses. The insufficient rainfall is already beginning to affect agriculture, delaying vegetable growth and raising concerns about the potential for more severe impacts on crop production and daily life for residents in the affected areas.
