Iraq Monitors Euphrates Levels as Syria Warns of Flood Risk

Iraq’s Ministry of Water Resources said no sudden or exceptional rise has been recorded in the Euphrates River, while confirming that water levels are under continuous monitoring. The ministry said it is watching for any incoming surges and preparing to assess inflows to the Euphrates basin effectively. Minister Muthanna al-Temimi instructed technical and operational teams to remain on alert to absorb any water waves that may arrive. The ministry said coordination with the Syrian side on water levels and releases is ongoing. It added that any possible increase in water flows would be used to strengthen reserves, especially after last season’s low-storage problems. Incoming water will be optimized to boost storage at Haditha Dam. The measures are intended to secure all water supplies needed under the summer water plan and meet different usage requirements. Meanwhile, Syria’s Ministry of Emergency and Disaster Management warned of flood risk on the Euphrates after dam gates were opened. It called for the evacuation of riverside homes in Deir ez-Zor and Raqqa.