Mekong River Delta prepares for El Niño-driven water shortages

The Mekong River Delta is preparing for potential water shortages driven by El Niño. According to a report from the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, the region faces significant risks to food and energy security due to declining water levels.

Upstream reservoirs in the Mekong basin have reached approximately 79.7% of their useful capacity, but inflows are expected to decrease toward the end of the flood season. The 2026–2027 dry season is projected to be among the driest on record, with saltwater intrusion expected to penetrate 10–20 km deeper than average at river mouths starting in December 2026.

The Mekong River Delta is vital to national water security, accounting for 56.2% of the country's surface water. However, the region relies on upstream Mekong flows for nearly 95% of its water and is highly vulnerable to drought and salinity. Currently, approximately 97.9% of the basin's water demand is used for agriculture, highlighting an urgent need for improved water management and efficiency.