Experts warn that this year’s rainfall levels have been significantly lower than in previous years, a troubling trend that could lead to severe repercussions if the dry conditions persist
The delayed and lack of rainfall in Lebanon this year has raised alarm across multiple sectors, as rain is a vital resource that sustains agriculture in the country, replenishes water supplies, and helps maintain the delicate ecological balance.
Lebanon is often hailed as being rich in water and snow but due to the climate crisis, its farming communities are facing significant challenges, directly impacting their livelihoods. Lack of snow is also impacting sectors like the ski slopes that have traditionally made the country a unique destination in the Arab region.
Snow melting earlier in spring means less water will be available in summer when farmers need it for irrigation. The Cedar forests are also directly impacted by the decline in snow, which exposes forests to higher diseases and wildfires in the summer.
The challenges of Lebanon’s rural farming communities are accompanied by another crisis that goes beyond corruption and financial mismanagement and that is climate change. Entire communities are very dependent on rain-fed agriculture, that is what they make their livelihoods from and that’s how many are surviving.
Basic operating costs are out of reach for most farmers in many areas, and in many regions, like South Lebanon, farmers have already been hit hard by Israel’s aggression.
“Lebanon is facing a severe water crisis due to a significant drop in rainfall over recent years, leading to a noticeable decline in the country’s water resources,” Nijad Saed Eddine, Agricultural engineer and field coordinator in Shouf Biosphere Reserve explained to NOW.
Climate change has played a key role in this crisis, with rainfall levels decreasing by as much as 30 per cent compared to previous years, according to Nijad.
This decline has directly impacted Lebanon’s rivers and lakes, which serve as primary water sources.
One of the most affected bodies of water is the Litani River, the country’s longest river and a crucial source of freshwater. Water levels in the Litani have dropped by nearly 50 per cent compared to last year, turning what was once a vital waterway into a dwindling stream.
Similarly, Lake Qaraoun, one of Lebanon’s largest reservoirs, has experienced a sharp decline in water levels, drastically reducing its size.
The impact on the country’s agriculture
Prolonged droughts have further exacerbated the situation, depleting underground water reserves and significantly reducing river flows. This has created a ripple effect on agriculture, threatening food security and placing additional strain on local communities.
Farmers, particularly in the Beqaa Valley and South Lebanon, are struggling to irrigate their crops, leading to lower yields and financial hardship.
Abou Alaa, a farmer who owns lands in the heart of Qab Elias, in Lebanon’s Bekaa Valley, often referred to as the country’s agricultural heartland, told NOW: “We rely on rainwater to keep irrigation costs down, but with this drought, we’re forced to pump more groundwater, which means higher fuel and electricity expenses.
“The small farmer is struggling, and consumers will feel it too. If this continues, many of us might have to abandon certain crops altogether,” He added.
According to Abou Alaa, this dramatic shortfall in rainfall has had a direct impact on crop production, particularly for key staples such as lettuce, potatoes, tomatoes, and cucumbers.
With less water available for irrigation, farmers like Abou Alaa have struggled to sustain their usual yields, leading to a noticeable decline in supply and rising costs.
At the same time, consumer demand remains steady, especially during peak seasons like Ramadan when consumption of vegetables rises significantly.
“Fertilizers and pesticides have already become more expensive due to inflation, and now, with water scarcity, we have no choice but to raise prices just to break even,” Abou Alaa explained.
Mismanagement
Moreover, poor water management and outdated infrastructure have worsened the crisis. Studies suggest that nearly 50 per cent of Lebanon’s water supply is lost due to leaks in old pipelines, compounding the already critical shortage.
Increased temperatures and prolonged dry spells have also led to higher evaporation rates from reservoirs and natural water bodies, further depleting available resources.
Once known for its abundant water supply, Lebanon now finds itself in a precarious situation.
Without immediate and effective measures, including improved water conservation, infrastructure repair, and policy reforms, the country could face even more severe water shortages in the coming years, according to Nijad.
Climate change
Lebanon has always had seasonal variations in rainfall, but the recent decline is more extreme and prolonged.
“Some farmers are adapting by shifting to drought-resistant crops or investing in more efficient irrigation systems, but these solutions require financial support and long-term planning,” explained Nijad.
As spring sets in, concerns are growing over the long-term impact of this deficit in the coming months and how Lebanon can adapt to what appears to be a recurring climatic pattern that surfaces every few decades.
Meteorologists and agricultural experts have differing perspectives on the severity of the situation.
The Meteorological Service has classified 2025 as a drought year, emphasizing the alarming drop in precipitation.
However, agricultural specialists argue that Lebanon is experiencing a natural climatic cycle rather than an outright drought. They stress the importance of preparing for such fluctuations annually, noting that while rainfall levels have indeed declined, they still amount to nearly half of the usual average, which, in their view, does not qualify as a full-fledged drought.
As Lebanon grapples with this water crisis, the focus now shifts to long-term strategies for mitigating its impact, whether through improved water management, more sustainable agricultural practices, or investments in alternative water sources.
Farmers, who rely on winter rains to irrigate their crops, are particularly vulnerable, while concerns are also mounting over water shortages and their impact on households, hydropower generation, and overall economic stability.
Rodayna Raydan is a Lebanese-British journalist. You can follow her on Twitter @Rodayna_462
The views in this story reflect those of the author alone and do not necessarily reflect the beliefs of NOW.
