WMO warns of decade-long decline in global freshwater reserves

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has issued a warning regarding the persistent depletion of global freshwater reserves. According to the 2025 State of Global Water Resources report, terrestrial water storage in rivers, lakes, glaciers, and groundwater has been declining for a decade.

In 2025, approximately 36% of river basins experienced below-normal flow rates, making it one of the driest years for rivers in 35 years. Significant water shortages were observed across Europe, North America, the Rio de la Plata basin, and major African rivers such as the Nile and Congo. Conversely, some regions in Southeast Asia and parts of South America experienced flows significantly above average.

Groundwater levels are also under severe pressure. The report notes that 65% of global groundwater observation stations recorded annual mean levels outside the normal range. Persistent deficits were identified in regions including central and northern Chile, Central and Eastern Europe, the Middle East, Northwest India, South Africa, Australia, California, the southern United States, and Mexico. While drought contributes to these declines, intensive extraction is cited as a primary driver in areas like central Mexico and the central United States.