Head of Iran's Meteorological Organization: 17 Provinces Face 40% Shortage of Precipitation

The head of Iran's Meteorological Organization reported a 40% shortage of precipitation in 17 provinces of Iran over the past two months. According to the state news agency IRNA, Davood Parhizkar stated on Sunday, December 3, that the shortage is more severe in five provinces: Qom, South Khorasan, Isfahan, Markazi, and Yazd. Earlier, the ISNA news agency reported that climate change in the water sector has led to a 10% decrease in precipitation compared to the past two decades, while Iran's temperature has increased by 1.5 degrees. These two factors are cited as primary reasons for the increased evaporation of water resources and the reduction of surface water in Iran. Following climate changes, ISNA reported that the Ministry of Energy has reconsidered some of its decisions, including halting the construction of 50 dams, which had been planned for construction. The Ministry of Energy announced that this decision was made due to an increase in water evaporation of about 25 billion cubic meters caused by climate change and a 20% reduction in the country's surface water. Reports indicate that, in addition to other negative consequences, the shortage of precipitation will also affect air pollution levels. According to IRNA, urban areas will face increased air pollution this year due to the lack of precipitation. In another part of his remarks, Davood Parhizkar referred to the drought index up to the end of November this year, indicating the occurrence of drought in most regions of Iran. A report published by ISNA earlier this year also highlighted the drying of wetlands across the country and the emergence of dust and particulate matter as other effects of climate change.