As summer heat intensifies, Türkiye’s capital is grappling with a deepening water crisis driven by dwindling reservoirs, persistent drought, and shifting precipitation patterns.
Officials say the five major dams and reservoirs supplying Ankara—home to nearly 6 million residents—are hovering near historic lows after an unusually warm, dry winter. Ankara’s water utility, ASKI, reported dam storage at just 15 percent, with overall reservoir capacity at 25 percent, well below levels needed to meet demand.
“There are serious disruptions in precipitation patterns due to climate change,” ASKI General Manager Memduh Aslan Akcay told state media. “If water consumption continues and rainfall remains scarce, drastic measures will be needed. We may have to cut supply.”
Authorities have already urged residents to avoid non-essential water use, including gardening, pool filling, and car washing. A tiered pricing system penalizing high consumption and rewarding conservation has been introduced, alongside efforts to drill 24 new wells in three districts.
Experts say the current crisis reflects a broader climate trend.
“Climate change is especially severe in Türkiye because of its location in the Mediterranean Basin, which is becoming increasingly arid,” meteorologist Adil Tek told broadcasters.
According to the Turkish State Meteorological Service, central Anatolia received more than 30 percent less rainfall than average during the 2024–2025 winter. Record temperatures further reduced snowpack and accelerated reservoir evaporation.
“These are no longer anomalies—they’re climate realities,” Tek said.
Agricultural zones surrounding Ankara are also under strain. Farmers are reporting sharp declines in wheat, barley, and sunflower yields—key crops for domestic consumption and export.
Union of Turkish Agricultural Chambers President Semsi Bayraktar said in a statement that central Anatolia’s grain harvest will shrink significantly this year due to drought. Türkiye’s wheat production is projected at 18.65 million tonnes—roughly 2 million less than last year—despite increased land usage, according to May figures from the National Grain Council.
With temperatures expected to reach 37 degrees Celsius next week, Akcay emphasized the need for a community-wide response.
“We treat tap water like it’s infinite,” he said. “But if we keep living that way, restrictions will grow. Without water, there’s no agriculture, no industry—no city.”