Severe drought is affecting Cyprus, and the government has approved a package of 31 million euros for managing the crisis. Citizens are urged to reduce water consumption by 10%.

The island of Cyprus is in a critical situation due to prolonged drought, and recent rains have brought only two million cubic meters of water into reservoirs, insufficient to stabilize supplies. In an extraordinary meeting, the Council of Ministers approved an intervention package of 31 million euros, and total investments for managing the crisis exceed 200 million euros.

The government recommends citizens reduce water consumption by at least 10%, which would mean using tap water for about two minutes less per day. Farmers are the most affected, with a water allocation for agriculture 30% lower than last year, which could lead to decreased production and increased food prices. Additionally, the government intends to put a new desalination plant into operation by the end of 2026, collaborating with the United Arab Emirates for expertise and equipment.