Damascus, Syria – Amid recent developments in the Euphrates River basin, Syrian Energy Minister Mohammed al-Bashir announced a gradual improvement in the water situation. He offered reassurance to residents of Raqqa and Deir ez-Zor provinces who have suffered in recent days from the effects of a sudden rise in water levels.
Technical measures to control flooding
In statements carried by the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA), Al-Bashir explained that technical teams working at the Euphrates Dam took immediate steps to contain the excess water flow. Gate number 4 of the dam’s spillway was closed. The minister confirmed that this measure reduced the water flow to approximately 1,400 cubic meters per second. He also emphasized that technical personnel are continuing round-the-clock monitoring and field operations to ensure a gradual and controlled return of water levels to safe and normal levels.
Human and agricultural losses
This improvement on the ground comes after Syrian Minister of Emergency and Disaster Management, Raed al-Saleh, announced on Friday the heavy toll of damage caused by the flooding. Al-Saleh indicated that the rising river levels directly affected approximately 2,400 families in Deir ez-Zor province.
The Minister of Emergency Situations explained that the floods affected vast areas, particularly river basins and extensive agricultural lands. This resulted in significant material losses to crops and local infrastructure.
Regarding the humanitarian situation, Al-Saleh confirmed that no new casualties had been recorded due to the flooding. However, he reiterated the ministry’s previous strong warnings about the dangers of swimming in the river during this period. He also noted that several children had drowned in recent days as a result of ignoring these warnings. This comes amidst volatile weather and water conditions.
Local authorities, in coordination with relevant agencies, are currently assessing the extent of the damage inflicted on the affected areas in Deir ez-Zor and Raqqa. They are also working on mechanisms to compensate families who lost their livelihoods due to the flooding of agricultural lands. This comes amidst calls for citizens to remain in contact with official operations rooms and to follow strict safety instructions until the state of emergency has completely subsided.
