RAQQA: Syrian Civil Defense warned residents in Raqqa and Deir Ezzor provinces on Monday of possible flooding as water levels in the Euphrates River continued to rise following increased water discharge from the Euphrates Dam.
The Syrian Civil Defense said, citing the Early Warning and Preparedness Department and the General Authority for the Euphrates Dam, that river levels could rise by more than 2 meters after dam discharge was increased to 1,500 cubic meters per second.
Authorities urged residents living near the river to leave low-lying areas, suspend the use of boats and ferries, avoid crossing earthen bridges and move families and belongings to safer locations.
The Ministry of Energy said three spillway gates at the Euphrates Dam had been opened for the first time in more than 30 years due to rising water levels. It described the measure as necessary to protect the dam and maintain electricity stability.
Separately, rising river levels partially flooded Al-Yonani camp for displaced families south of Raqqa on Sunday, damaging dozens of tents and prompting calls for emergency assistance.
Residents said the floodwaters spread rapidly through the camp, forcing families to evacuate children and salvage belongings amid a lack of emergency support.
Displaced families appealed for urgent humanitarian aid and relocation assistance amid mounting fears of further flooding.
