The biggest and third-biggest dams, Kouris and Evretou overflowed overnight, bringing water stocks even closer to 100%.

With a capacity of 115,000 million cubic metres (mcm), Kouris accounts for about a third of the total dam capacity on the island and has only overflowed twice since it was built in 1988.

Together with Asprokremmos, which filled over at the weekend, and Evretou, the three biggest dams represent about two-thirds of the island’s water reserves.

An official from the Water Development Department said the abundant rains combined with efficient management of water stocks had led to dams, already well-stocked from last year to filling up early.

Excess water that is being released will enrich ground reserves, he added. With proper management, Cyprus’ dams now have about four years of water reserves, he added.

Evretou dam has a capacity of 24 mcm. It last filled in April 2019 and in January 2012. Built-in 1986 it is part of the irrigation scheme for Chrysochous valley. The dam was 95% full on Tuesday but heavy rains led to an inflow in excess of 1 mcm.

Overall, 11 dams have filled up —  the three biggest as well as Yermasoyia, Kalavasos, Arminou,  Kanaviou, Argakas, Pomos, Xyliatos and Kalopanayiotis