Greek islands drought emergency
Analysis based on 13 articles · First reported Jul 16, 2026 · Last updated Jul 16, 2026
The drought threatens tourism, a key sector for Greece, as water shortages may deter visitors and increase costs for hotels and desalination. Agricultural output on affected islands is also at risk, potentially raising food prices locally.
Seven Greek islands in the Aegean Sea, including Greece — Astypalaia, have declared drought emergencies in 2026 due to climate change causing hotter summers and erratic rainfall. Greece — Astypalaia experienced its second driest season since 2020, with its main reservoir at one-sixth capacity. Authorities cut off irrigation for farmers in April, declared a water emergency in May, and fast-tracked a temporary desalination plant. Hoteliers offer vouchers to guests who skip daily cleaning to save water. Environment Minister Stavros Papastavrou approved 15 million euros for water infrastructure on nine islands. The International — Copernicus European Drought Observatory marked Greece — Astypalaia in orange in June. The National Centre for Scientific Research "Demokritos" warns drought could worsen by 2049.
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