Greece’s Lake Koroneia is disappearing as drought and heat turn a wetland reserve into cracked earth
Lake Koroneia in northern Greece is undergoing a sharp environmental transformation after its waters receded into scattered shallow pools, revealing the speed at which drought and rising temperatures are affecting one of the protected wetlands near Thessaloniki.
From a haven for birds to cracked earth
The lake once hosted thousands of migratory and water birds, including flamingos, while also supporting fishing, agriculture and local tourism. But a Reuters report published on October 1, 2026, showed that large areas of the lakebed had become cracked, with only limited stretches of water remaining.
Heat and irrigation under scrutiny
Scientists link the lake’s deterioration to a combination of rising temperatures, declining rainfall and intensive water use for irrigation. The scene points to the mounting pressure on water systems across the Mediterranean as droughts and heatwaves become more frequent.
An environmental warning extending beyond Greece
The lake’s decline threatens not only wildlife but also the communities that have historically depended on its resources. It has once again put water management and climate adaptation in southern Europe in the spotlight.
Source: Reuters, October 1, 2026.
