Thessaly faces projected doubling of drought severity by 2100

Research by the Hydrology and Water Systems Analysis Laboratory at the University of Thessaly shows that the region's water resources have endured the greatest anthropogenic pressure for irrigation among Greece's water divisions. Historical data indicate a 30‑50% drop in rainfall between the 1980s and earlier periods, leading to reduced irrigated land, lower crop yields, and depletion of groundwater and surface water, especially in the western mountainous area that feeds the Pineios River.

The studies project that drought episodes in Thessaly will nearly double in frequency, severity, and duration for the 2070‑2100 period, affecting a larger portion of the region. Researchers stress the need for a reliable operational drought forecasting and monitoring system and for actionable mitigation measures, while noting high uncertainty in global climate model projections.