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Persistent rainfall has filled the Almus Reservoir in Tokat to 100% capacity, prompting authorities to activate flood precaution measures in downstream areas.
The reservoir, which supports agricultural irrigation and hydroelectric power generation, had fallen to around 38% in January following a dry spell. However, sustained rainfall throughout winter and spring has led to a rapid recovery in water levels, fully submerging a small island that had emerged during last year’s drought.
Officials are reportedly assessing the possibility of controlled water release through the spillway, an operation not carried out since May 1993.
Rising water levels have increased flood risk along the Yesilirmak River, particularly in the district of Turhal. In response, local authorities have intensified flood prevention efforts across the region.
Teams from the Tokat Provincial Special Administration, the State Hydraulic Works (DSI), Turhal Municipality and the General Directorate of Highways have built temporary stone barriers along vulnerable river sections to prevent overflow into residential areas.
Authorities issued precautionary evacuation warnings for residents in 15 neighborhoods and seven villages via municipal loudspeaker systems. Following the alerts, some residents began evacuating their homes and workplaces, while others reinforced their properties by covering building exteriors with tarpaulins to mitigate potential flood damage.
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