Syrian Authorities Warn of Euphrates River Flood Risk After Dam Gate Opening

The Syrian Ministry of Emergency and Disaster Management issued an urgent warning about the risk of flooding along the Euphrates River in the Raqqa and Deir ez-Zor provinces. This alert follows water levels in the Euphrates reservoirs surpassing 97% of their total capacity.

The Early Warning and Preparedness Directorate within the ministry reported that the water flow rate increased from 500 cubic meters per second to 800 cubic meters per second, with projections that it could reach up to 1,000 cubic meters per second. Such an increase may cause the river’s water level to rise by more than two meters.

The ministry called on residents living along the riverbanks to evacuate low-lying areas, suspend the use of boats and ferries, avoid crossing earthen bridges, and relocate families and belongings to safer locations.

The rising water levels have already caused partial flooding of the "Al-Younani" camp for displaced persons, located south of Raqqa city. This flooding damaged dozens of tents and forced families to urgently evacuate children and possessions amid a shortage of emergency equipment. A displaced person named Abdul Hakim Al-Ali reported that "the water reached the tents very quickly," warning that the situation could worsen without intervention from relevant authorities.

The Euphrates Dam Authority confirmed that opening the dam’s discharge gates is a precautionary measure aimed at reducing hydraulic pressure on the dam structure, ensuring its structural safety, and maintaining electricity stability. The general director of the Euphrates Dam Authority, Haitham Bakour, stated that the current situation does not pose an immediate threat to the villages and towns along both sides of the river. He urged residents to avoid approaching or swimming in the river during this period and to promptly remove agricultural equipment from the riverbanks.

Meanwhile, the Emergency and Disaster Management Directorate in Deir ez-Zor announced an elevated state of readiness to respond to any emergencies. This preparedness is coordinated with relevant institutions and involves close monitoring of water levels in the Euphrates River.

The Syrian Arab News Agency reported that northern and eastern regions of Syria have experienced rainfall levels above average this season. While this has improved water reserves, it has also raised concerns about potential flooding.