Iraqs Wetlands Revive After Years of Severe Drought

Iraq’s Huwaizah Marshes Receive Much-Needed Rainfall

The southern marshes of Iraq have seen a significant increase in water levels following recent rainfall, bringing new life to the ancient ecosystem. The wetlands, which are home to a diverse range of protected biodiversity, have been ravaged by years of drought attributed to climate change and upstream dams in neighboring countries.

According to reports, the returning water has revitalized the area, with patches of greenery appearing throughout the marshes. Fishermen and residents have expressed optimism about the future of their homeland, noting that the influx of water is expected to restore fish and livestock populations.

The Iraq Water Ministry has confirmed that reservoirs on the Tigris River are nearly full, with expectations that water levels in the Euphrates will rise in the coming days if Syria releases water from its dams. As a result, the marshlands have experienced “a relative revival,” according to local activist Ahmed Saleh Neema.

Neema stated that 85 percent of the wetlands are now submerged, although further water depth is still needed to prevent the area from drying out during the summer months when temperatures reach 50C. The Huwaizah Marshes, which have been a subject of concern due to environmental degradation, appear to be showing signs of recovery with the recent rainfall.

Source: Al Jazeera