The Greek government has extended the state of emergency over possible water shortages on the Dodecanese island of Leros for an additional three months, it was announced on Monday.

Environment and Energy Minister Stavros Papastavrou signed the decision following consultations with the Regulatory Authority for Waste, Energy and Water and the secretary-general for Aegean and Island Policy.

The extension comes as the country faces mounting pressure on water resources after consecutive years of below-average rainfall, prolonged heatwaves and skyrocketing summer demand driven by tourism. Several islands and mainland regions have reported declining reservoir levels and increasing strain on aging water infrastructure over the past year.

Authorities have repeatedly warned that water scarcity is emerging as one of Greece’s most pressing climate-related challenges, particularly in the Aegean islands, where desalination units and water transfers are often required during peak summer months. Recent reports have highlighted concerns over dwindling groundwater reserves, saltwater intrusion and the growing risk of supply disruptions during the tourist season.

Photo: Antonis Nikolopoulos / Eurokinissi