Heavy rainfall triggered floods in parts of western Iran, especially in drought-hit provinces like Ilam and Kurdistan, despite the country suffering a historic water shortage. Iran’s meteorological agency issued flood warnings for six western provinces and predicted rain in 18 of its 31 provinces. The crisis comes after months of severe drought that has pushed reservoir levels to dangerously low points, about 85% below average, leaving taps dry in places, including Tehran. Experts warn that prolonged drought reduces the soil’s ability to absorb water, making flash floods more likely when rain does come.

Source: Reuters.com