Lebanon is facing an unprecedented drought that could worsen in the coming month, with no rainfall expected before October 15. Michel Frem, president of the Lebanese Agricultural Research Institute (IRAL), has urged the government to declare a “hydric emergency.”
In a statement released on Monday, Frem warned that both surface water and underground aquifers – already severely depleted – are under threat. “Current agricultural seasons are directly at risk due to this drought,” he said.
Frem also cautioned about potential shortages of drinking water, noting that autumn rainfall is expected to be insufficient to replenish reserves. He called for strict water rationing and the adoption of modern irrigation techniques to minimize agricultural losses in volume and quality, which could also impact prices.
Many regions are already experiencing a scarcity of potable water, exacerbated by pollution of the remaining resources. “Surface and groundwater levels have dropped significantly and continue to be contaminated by sewage and stagnant water, making them unsafe for consumption,” he warned.
This alert echoes remarks made by Minister of Energy Joe Saddi in August 2025, who highlighted an unprecedented water shortage in Lebanon. According to Saddi, annual rainfall in 2024–2025 dropped by 50% compared to the historical average.
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