Iran's president warns Tehran may face evacuation over water crisis

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has raised alarm over Tehran's escalating water crisis, suggesting the capital city might require evacuation if drought conditions persist without immediate rainfall. The warning came during the president's visit to western Iran where he addressed multiple challenges facing the nation, including economic pressures and environmental emergencies.

Imminent Water Restrictions

President Pezeshkian delivered a sobering assessment of Tehran's water situation, stating that "if it doesn't rain, we will have to start restricting water supplies in Tehran next month." He described the capital's circumstances as "alarming" and indicated that continued drought could force complete depletion of water reserves, potentially necessitating evacuation of the metropolitan area. The president simultaneously acknowledged economic difficulties stemming from both policy shortcomings and international sanctions.

Critical Reservoir Levels

Tehran's water supply system, dependent on five major dams including the largest at Amir Kabir, has reached critically low levels after five years of declining rainfall. Meteorological data indicates precipitation in the Tehran region has fallen approximately 40% below seasonal averages this year, with spring and summer droughts particularly affecting both surface and groundwater reserves. Water authority officials reported in July that reservoir levels had reached their lowest point in a century.

Emergency Timeframe

The Tehran Water Authority had previously warned that dam reserves could sustain the city for only two additional weeks if dry conditions continue unabated. Intermittent water cuts have already been implemented during summer months, and President Pezeshkian had cautioned as early as July that providing water to the public would soon become impossible without effective intervention measures and improved resource management practices.