Agricultural water drought in South Korea's Miryang elevated to 'severe' amid worsening crisis

South Korea is grappling with an escalating drought crisis, exacerbated by record-breaking heatwaves this summer. The situation in Miryang city, South Gyeongsang Province, has worsened, with the agricultural water drought emergency response level raised from 'alert' to the highest 'severe' category.

As of Saturday, Miryang's agricultural water reservoir levels stood at 26.3%, a mere 35.4% of the average for this period. Across Gyeongnam Province, 10 cities and counties are on 'alert' level, with Changwon city nearing the 'severe' level due to its reservoir's low water storage. Other areas are categorized under 'warning' or 'watch' levels, with only Hamyang County not yet entering an emergency response phase.

The drought stages are classified into four levels: 'watch' (reservoir levels below 70% of the 30-year average), 'warning' (below 60%), 'alert' (below 50%), and 'severe' (below 40%). Reservoir levels continue to decline not only due to agricultural water demand but also increased natural evaporation during the heatwaves. Provincial authorities and the Korea Rural Community Corporation are supplying water by diverting from the Nakdong River and utilizing groundwater.

Meanwhile, the Gwangju-Jeonnam region is also experiencing a heightened drought crisis, with decreasing water levels for both living and agricultural use. The Dongbok Dam, the largest water source for Gwangju, has been moved to the 'warning' stage as its water storage dropped below 60% of the average. While current water supply is expected to last until late September, emergency measures like timed or alternate-day water restrictions may become necessary afterward. Agricultural reservoirs in the region have also entered the 'watch' stage, prompting authorities to explore alternative water sources and inter-reservoir water transfers.