In a statement to Tunisie Numérique, climate and water resources expert Hussein Rhaili underscored the considerable increase in temperatures, remarking that March of this year registered the highest temperatures since 1850. He explained that this abnormality accounts for the current weather conditions characterized by extremely high temperatures and humidity levels.
Rhaili added on Monday, June 3, 2024, that climate changes have a significant impact on the Mediterranean basin region. He pointed out that the temperatures currently being registered in Tunisia, reaching 42 degrees Celsius in the south, are typically seen in July. He stressed that this phenomenon will greatly affect the evaporation rates of dam water.
The expert noted that last year, 1 million cubic meters of water evaporated in a single day, an amount equivalent to the daily drinking water consumption of 14 states. He underlined that all forecasts predict a very hot summer for the Mediterranean region, making it crucial to prepare adequately for upcoming heat waves.
Rhaili urged that this preparation should include guaranteeing the availability of significant quantities of drinking water. He also recommended rethinking the traditional dam construction policy in favour of innovative dams capable of preserving water resources.