Istanbul Faces Water Shortage as Reservoir Levels Drop Amid Heatwave

Amid scorching temperatures and prolonged dry weather, Istanbul’s reservoirs are rapidly losing water. In just 15 days, the city’s overall dam fill rate fell from 56.24% to 50.62%, with six reservoirs now below 50% capacity.

Rising Heat, No Rain: Water Levels Plummet Across Istanbul

The ongoing heatwave and a lack of rainfall are putting severe pressure on Istanbul’s water supply. According to data from the Istanbul Water and Sewerage Administration (İSKİ), the city’s reservoir levels have dropped significantly over the last two weeks.

Once hovering around 80% in spring, the average dam fill rate in Istanbul has now plummeted to around 50% at the peak of summer. Experts point to intensified evaporation and an extended drought as the key reasons behind the sharp decline.

Alibeyköy Dam Severely Affected

Among the city’s major reservoirs, Alibeyköy Dam has experienced the most alarming drop. Once at 65% capacity in March, it now stands at just 34.09%—a clear indicator that reserves are critically low in some locations.

6 Out of 10 Dams Below 50%

Of Istanbul’s 10 main reservoirs, six have now fallen below half capacity:

• Alibeyköy

• Büyükçekmece

• Sazlıdere

• Istrancalar

• Kazandere

• Papuçdere

This trend has raised concerns about water security and sparked calls for more responsible water usage and improved urban resource management.

Highest and Lowest Levels

• The most filled reservoir is currently Elmalı Dam at 67.06%, followed by Darlık (61.08%) and Terkos (54.73%).

• The lowest recorded level belongs to Istrancalar Dam, which has dropped to just 30.06%.

Current Dam Fill Rates (August 2025, İSKİ)

• Elmalı: 67.06% ✅

• Darlık: 61.08%

• Terkos: 54.73%

• Ömerli: 50.18%

• Büyükçekmece: 49.68% ⚠️

• Papuçdere: 43.79% ⚠️

• Sazlıdere: 43.31% ⚠️

• Kazandere: 38.76% ⚠️

• Alibeyköy: 34.09% ❗

• Istrancalar: 30.06% ❗