Iraq's water storage surges 580% after heavy rains, minister says

Iraq's water reserves have risen to 34 billion cubic meters from a low of 5 billion cubic meters at the start of 2026, supported by heavy rainfall, the Water Resources Minister announced.

• Water Resources Minister Muthanna al-Tamimi said the country's water storage reached 34 billion cubic meters, a 580% increase from the 5 billion recorded in early 2026.
• Al-Tamimi stated that Iraq experienced its most severe water shortage since 1933 in late 2025 and early 2026.
• The minister called for maintaining the current water levels to support the agricultural season and ensure sufficient irrigation for farmers.
• Agriculture Undersecretary Mahdi Sahr al-Jubouri said the ministry expects wheat production to reach 5 million tons in the 2025–2026 season, enabling self-sufficiency for the fourth consecutive year.