"During the summer of 2025, Iran experienced an exceptional heat wave, with daytime temperatures across several regions, including Tehran, approaching 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit) and forcing the temporary closure of public offices and banks. During this period, major reservoirs supplying the Tehran region reached record-low levels, and water supply systems came under acute strain. By early November, the reservoir behind Amir Kabir Dam, a main source of drinking water for Tehran, had dropped to about 8 percent of its capacity."
"The drought quickly disrupted Tehran's urban systems. With dry soils and high evaporation, rivers and wetlands shrank. Falling reservoir levels led to disruptions in hydropower generation, and water shortages prompted strict saving measures across parts of the capital. Amid these escalating pressures, officials warned that the capital city may even have to be evacuated if water supplies fail to recover."
An exceptional summer 2025 heat wave pushed daytime temperatures in several Iranian regions, including Tehran, toward 50°C, forcing temporary closure of public offices and banks. Major reservoirs supplying Tehran dropped to record-low levels and water supply systems experienced acute strain. By early November, the Amir Kabir Dam reservoir fell to about 8% capacity, reflecting consecutive years of reduced precipitation and national drought. Rivers and wetlands contracted as soils dried and evaporation increased, reducing hydropower generation and prompting strict water-saving measures. Officials warned of possible evacuation and relocation of the capital if supplies fail, exposing vulnerabilities in infrastructure, economy, and communities.
Read at WIRED
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]