An alarming water shortage began in Damascus after the Ein al-Fijeh spring, found in the Barada Valley near the capital, reached its lowest level in many years. This spring gives water to 70% of the city and supports around 5 million people. Usually, rain and snow from nearby mountains refill the spring each year. However, precipitation was much lower this winter—the driest since 1956. Because of this, the spring and the Barada River, which runs through Damascus, have almost dried up. The Damascus City Water Supply Authority confirmed that the spring is working at its weakest capacity.

To solve this issue, people are using water from private trucks. Some homes now get water for only 90 minutes each day. Power problems make it harder to use electric water pumps. The water tunnels, first built by the Romans and later repaired in 1920 and 1980, are under extreme stress. Experts called the situation unprecedented and asked the public to use less water. The area near the spring, once popular with visitors, is now empty. Repairs have started on homes and businesses hurt by past conflict. There is strong concern that the problem will become worse in summer, showing the need for quick government intervention and better water planning.