The Ministry of Water Resources of Iraq has planned a series of preventive measures for the rainy and winter seasons to better manage water resources and prevent damage caused by floods. This decision was made following predictions of heavy rainfall and the possibility of floods occurring in late September.
Establishment of Flood Operations Center
According to ministry officials, on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, the ministry announced the activation of a central flood operations center to monitor the water status of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. This center is responsible for monitoring any potential floods and taking necessary actions to address them. Officials also reported on the assessment of critical points and existing issues in the water basins.
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Assessment of Critical Points
Khalid Shamal, spokesperson for the Ministry of Water Resources and Director General of Irrigation and Reform Projects, stated in a statement that forecasts indicate that the upcoming rainy and winter seasons will be very wet. These forecasts are based on global weather models predicting heavier rainfall in the northern and eastern regions of the country.
Shamal added: "Our actions include field surveys by engineering teams to identify critical points to prevent problems before floods occur. Coordination with civil defense management to strengthen logistical and human preparedness in provinces and areas near rivers and waterways is also on the agenda."
Strengthening Water Infrastructure
The ministry has also emphasized the importance of strengthening water infrastructure and reported on repairs and maintenance of dams and water barriers near residential areas and agricultural lands. The goal of these actions is to ensure the capacity of these infrastructures to manage floods and prevent potential damages.
Shamal further noted that the management of dams and strategic reservoirs in the country is conducted carefully and based on scientific systems to transfer excess water to low-lying areas and also play a role in improving environmental conditions.
Monitoring Water Distribution
The Minister of Water Resources of Iraq has also conducted field visits to the central provinces of the country and discussed planning for the winter season and allocation of necessary water amounts with local officials. These actions are aimed at ensuring water supply for agricultural uses in the central and southern provinces of the country.
Thus, the Ministry of Water Resources of Iraq, by taking necessary measures and making accurate predictions, aims to prevent damages caused by floods and improve the status of the country's water resources.
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