Iran dams 55% empty despite El Niño rains; water crisis persists

Despite forecasts of El Niño-driven rainfall, Iran's dam reservoirs remain 55% empty, indicating that precipitation has not materialized or has been insufficient to offset chronic drought. The shortfall underscores the severity of Iran's water scarcity and raises risks for agriculture, hydropower, and regional stability. The gap between forecast and actual conditions suggests either forecast error or deeper structural water mismanagement.