With the close of the year I thought it would be interesting to take a look at the rainfall data in Kythera, a subject of particular interest to the island both for the cultivators and for its development in general.
The data is public, see the hyperlink (congratulations to Hippolytos Preka and Stavros Charos for creating the station): Latest Conditions in Kythira
I make it clear that I am not an expert on the subject, but I believe my thoughts can contribute to the public debate
In the attached table and diagram you will see the average monthly rainfall for 2023 and 2024 (precipitation data from the weather station in Fràtsia - which may not be representative for the whole island but is quite indicative) and for comparison the average data for 40 years (Medina 2017 study)
Comments
Α. Total rainfall in the last two years is above the 40-year average (611 and 607 mm for 2023 and 2024 respectively compared to MO 540)
Β. But it seems, especially in 2024, that there was a complete lack of rain in the crucial (for the olives) month of October and in January - March.
Γ. But the crucial point is that the total rainfall is at quite high levels
The interesting thing here is that with 600 mm of rainfall we have a quantity of water falling on Kythera of about 178 million cubic metres! However, in the absence of suitable configurations (dams, aquifer recharge systems etc.) the largest percentage (of the order of 70% according to the literature) flows through the streams into the sea. Even so, a volume of 53 million cubic metres is still retained in the aquifer. But it seems to be getting deeper and deeper, since drilling has lowered the exploitable horizon
Notes. The total water consumption in Kythera is in the order of one million cubic metres annually (i.e. just 0.5% of rainfall)
One could say that (let me use the phrase) «We have water». The question is how we manage it.
So allow me a few thoughts
Α. In my opinion, a comprehensive water management strategy is needed in Kythera (and all the islands for that matter). Although it goes beyond the purpose of the note, the overall management should also include saving (for example limiting losses in the network, rationalisation of irrigation etc.) , recycling (the quantities lost in the drains are enormous but of course biological treatment and collection of the -third degree purified waste- is required everywhere), enhancement of water sources, improvement of infrastructure and in «production/pumping with boreholes and in the network.
Β. Focusing on the more immediate, it is positive that the City recently requested and recently received a study from EAGME to identify new areas for drilling. The study confirms that «water exists.» . But it will be more difficult and costly given that the proposals target much greater depths . But it is a temporary relief in my opinion, possibly in combination with desalination.
Γ. But I believe that a more integrated approach is needed (in the context of the above ideas). The EAGME study indicates the possibility of creating a reservoir in the area of Paleopolis (which is the largest catchment area in Kythera) while an earlier MEDINA study indicated 3 more areas (Pampa, Kakia Lagada, Kakos Potamos)
I believe the time has come to demand , through the Municipality, a fully integrated water management study, with an update of the Master Plan of 2020 (which did not fully cover all possible strategies) and then demand the implementation of the plan. Obviously we are talking about a multi-million dollar project. But if we want to talk about revitalising the island in a productive direction , this is the only way. The availability of water at a reasonable price is the basis for the revival of the primary sector in Kythera and, in combination, for the development of the processing/standardisation of agricultural products. Something that will also bring wealth to the island and keep productive and highly skilled people.
Unfortunately, the ramming and fragmentary solutions of drilling alone, even if they are a temporary solution, are not sufficient, as life has shown in recent years.
But all this requires first of all active citizens who will claim and a municipal authority that will get Bocharis in the claims respecting and becoming the voice of Kytheria
And an idea/suggestion. Wouldn't it be worthwhile for all the mass organizations of Kythera (associations, local councils, etc.) led by the Municipality to organize a conference on integrated water management on our island? And the conclusions to be used for the claims of Kythira from the state? I am sure many expert scientists would be more than willing to contribute
P.S. For more ideas see the article published on B2Green
The water problem in island Greece - Integrated approach to have a hope to solve it - B2Green
Professor Kaldellis is a well-known friend of Kythera. The article here is of course more general
Many of our compatriots have published similar ideas (Andreas Mariatos, Zacharias Souris, «TA KYTHIRAIKA», Global Water Partnership (Municipality Event) and others.
