Euphrates floods destroy crops in Eastern Syria

Rising water levels in the Euphrates River have caused widespread flooding in eastern Syria, destroying large areas of agricultural land and wiping out wheat and other crops. Local authorities said the surge was triggered by heavy rainfall combined with increased water inflows from Turkey, leading to what they described as an “exceptional” rise in river levels.

Floodwaters have submerged farmland, homes, and key infrastructure, including bridges and crossings, while dozens of water pumping stations used for irrigation and drinking water supply have been forced out of service. Authorities estimate that thousands of hectares in the Raqqa and Deir Ezzor provinces have been affected, leaving many farmers with total crop losses.

Residents say they received no early warning about the sudden rise in water levels, which in some areas flooded fields overnight, preventing the evacuation of equipment and harvests. Many farmers report losing their only source of income and now face difficulties repaying debts and preparing for the next planting season.

The Syrian government has blamed Turkey for failing to provide timely warnings about the increased water flow in the Euphrates, while Ankara has not issued an official response. Emergency measures are underway, including reinforcement of embankments, as water levels have begun to gradually decline, although conditions remain critical.

Farmers in the region describe the situation as one of the worst in decades and are calling for government compensation and urgent support, including seeds, fertilizers, and fuel to help restore agricultural production.

Tags: Syria