Study warns of Dead Sea shrinkage: lost about 41.8% of its area between 1971 and 2022

A new scientific study has documented the continued and accelerating decline in the surface area and water level of the Dead Sea, a development that raises concerns about the future of one of the region’s most prominent natural landmarks.

According to a report published by Al Jazeera, citing information from the journal Water, the Dead Sea lost approximately 41.8% of its surface area between 1971 and 2022, with projections indicating that water levels will continue to drop in the coming decades if current conditions persist.

The study explained that this decline is linked to a range of factors, most notably the reduced inflow of water to the Dead Sea resulting from the diversion of river courses, the construction of dams, and the expanded use of water resources, alongside climatic effects that increase evaporation rates. Researchers also warn that continued lowering of the water level could exacerbate the phenomenon of sinkholes, threatening infrastructure and the economic and tourism activities surrounding the area.

The study’s authors noted that addressing these challenges requires integrated solutions, including enhanced water resource management and regional cooperation, as well as the evaluation of proposed projects to replenish the Dead Sea with water, while taking into account environmental and economic considerations to ensure the preservation of this unique natural system.