Saudi Irrigation Organization Opens Gates of Baysh Dam to Manage Rainwater
The Saudi Irrigation Organization made a bold move on Monday by opening the gates of the Baysh Dam in the Jazan region. This decision was made to discharge water and lower the dam’s lake levels, which currently hold a whopping 117.7 million cubic meters, according to reports from the Saudi Press Agency.
The main goal behind this action is to effectively manage the incoming water from ongoing rainfall. By doing so, the organization aims to support agricultural activities, irrigate farms, replenish wells and groundwater, and enhance vegetation along the valley.
This decision was heavily influenced by a forecast from the Kingdom’s National Center for Meteorology. The forecast predicted continued thunderstorms across various regions, which could potentially bring heavy rainfall, hail, and strong winds. Such extreme weather conditions could lead to flash floods and sandstorms in areas like Najran, Jazan, Aseer, Al-Baha, Makkah, and Madinah.
To ensure a coordinated response to these weather conditions, the dam gates were opened in collaboration with authorities in Bisha Governorate. This is all part of an ongoing plan to address the challenges posed by the current rainy season. The plan involves a comprehensive approach, which includes the mobilization of human resources and readiness for emergency situations.
It’s important to note that the Wadi Baysh Dam is one of the largest and tallest dams in Saudi Arabia. Its purified water plays a crucial role in supporting desalination projects that provide drinking water to citizens and residents in the Jazan and Asir regions. This strategic move by the Saudi Irrigation Organization demonstrates their commitment to effectively managing water resources in the face of unpredictable weather patterns.