Recent rainfall has contributed more than two million cubic metres of water to Cyprus’ reservoirs, offering limited short-term relief, while overall reserves remain significantly below those recorded during the corresponding period last year, according to the agriculture ministry.

Speaking on CyBC radio on Monday, the ministerial permanent secretary, Andreas Grigoriou, affirmed that although inflows had marginally strengthened dam levels, total reserves stand at roughly 25 per cent of those recorded during the same period last year.

Pressure remains concentrated within the southern conveyor system, which includes key reservoirs such as the Kouris, Yermasogeia and Kalavasos dam.

Reservoir levels are currently estimated at around 22.7 per cent of total capacity, equivalent to approximately 63 million cubic metres.

Authorities attribute ongoing pressure on the system to reduced rainfall and sustained demand.

Plans are in progress to expand desalination capacity, with the aim of operating more than nine units by 2027.

The increase is expected to raise drinking water supply by approximately 34 per cent.

Grigoriou said the strategy is intended to “ensure a more stable water supply in the coming years”.

Desalination already accounts for more than 70 per cent of domestic water supply in Cyprus, while over 85 per cent of treated wastewater is reused, mainly for irrigation.

Operational issues at desalination units have affected supply in Larnaca, where rotational water cuts have been implemented.

Local authorities have advised residents to limit consumption while disruptions continue.