Istanbul’s reservoirs, water levels rise significant levels

According to the data released by the Istanbul Water and Sewerage Administration (ISKI), the water storage levels in the city’s reservoirs have shown significant improvement.

After reaching a low of 27.49% in November 2024, the water levels in these reservoirs have steadily risen, and, as of today, the average fill rate has reached 80.15%.

The ongoing drought across Türkiye has become a major concern for urban areas, particularly in metropolitan cities like Istanbul. However, recent rainfall in Istanbul has proven to be a beneficial factor, especially for the city’s water reservoirs.

Reservoir data from ISKI

As per the data shared by ISKI, the average fill rate of the reservoirs supplying water to Istanbul has now reached 80.15%.

This marks a sharp increase from the previous year’s lower levels. On Nov. 21, 2023, the fill rate had dropped to a concerning 27.49%.

By February 21st of this year, the reservoirs had regained some stability, reaching 70.05%. But, as of today, the water levels are in a much healthier state, rising to 80.15%, reflecting the positive impact of recent rainfall.

Water volume measurements

Water volumes across different reservoirs have varied, with some showing impressive recovery. The water levels in individual reservoirs are as follows:

• Alibey: 64.04%
• Buyukcekmece: 75.28%
• Darlik: 78.37%
• Elmali: 94.04%
• Istrancalar: 39.58%
• Kazandere: 85.25%
• Pabucdere: 84.33%
• Sazlidere: 58.36%
• Terkos: 80.62%
• Omerli: 93.71%

These measurements indicate that the water levels in most reservoirs are improving, with some even nearing full capacity.

Water storage capacity, usage

The total water storage capacity of Istanbul’s reservoirs and dams stands at a maximum of 868.68 million cubic meters. As of today, the total water in storage is recorded at 680.58 million cubic meters.

Additionally, Istanbul has sourced 242.82 million cubic meters of water from the Melen and Yesilcay rivers so far this year.

Historical reservoir fill rates over the decade

Looking at the historical data for reservoir fill rates on April 1st over the last decade:

• 2015: 94.66%
• 2016: 87.56%
• 2017: 88.89%
• 2018: 90.04%
• 2019: 93.7%
• 2020: 64.59%
• 2021: 73.18%
• 2022: 88.84%
• 2023: 39.59%
• 2024: 81.85%

The data shows significant fluctuations in water levels, with 2023 being a particularly dry year, while 2018 and 2019 saw the highest fill rates in the last decade.

The recent improvement in 2024, however, is a positive sign and indicates that Istanbul is managing its water resources more effectively despite ongoing challenges.

The city’s water management strategies, including sourcing from rivers and efficient reservoir use, have been crucial in stabilizing water levels.