ISTANBUL, January 8 – The latest data from the Istanbul Water and Sewerage Administration (İSKİ) reveals a concerning drop in dam occupancy rates across Istanbul. As of January 8, 2026, the average water level in the 10 main dams supplying the megacity stands at a mere 18.81%. This figure represents the lowest recorded level for January in the past decade, despite recent snow and rain.
Critical Levels in Istanbul’s Water Reservoirs
The situation is particularly dire for dams on the European side of Istanbul, with Terkos and Büyükçekmece dams, crucial water sources for the region, continuing to show alarmingly low levels. The impact of recent winter precipitation, which included both snow and rain, has been minimal, with occupancy rates resuming their downward trend after a slight increase.
For comparison, in January of the previous year, Istanbul’s dam occupancy rate was 41.53%. In 2019, the rate stood at a robust 86.86%, highlighting the severity of the current water shortage.
Dam Occupancy Rates as of January 8, 2026:
- Ömerli: 22.32%
- Darlık: 29.65%
- Elmalı: 58.54% (Highest occupancy)
- Terkos: 16.31%
- Alibeyköy: 12.37%
- Büyükçekmece: 15.97%
- Sazlıdere: 13.31%
- Istırancalar: 35.17%
- Kazandere: 4.48% (Lowest occupancy)
- Pabuçdere: 4.80%
Elmalı Dam currently holds the highest occupancy rate at 58.54%, offering a small glimmer of relief. However, Kazandere Dam, located in the northern part of Istanbul, is at a critical 4.48%, making it the dam with the lowest water level. Ömerli Dam, a major contributor to Istanbul’s water supply, is at 22.32%, while Terkos Dam, another vital source, is at 16.31%.
Long-Term Implications and Future Outlook
The persistently low dam levels raise serious concerns about Istanbul’s long-term water security. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, and residents are urged to conserve water. The current trend suggests that without significant and sustained precipitation in the coming months, Istanbul could face severe water supply challenges.
The data underscores the urgent need for comprehensive water management strategies and public awareness campaigns to address the ongoing drought conditions and ensure a sustainable water supply for the city’s growing population.
Source: [hurriyet.com.tr](https://www.hurriyet.com.tr/bilgi/galeri-yagis-sonrasi-istanbul-barajlarinda-son-durum-ne-iski-baraj-doluluk-oranlari-8-ocak-2026-43079420)
