A unique Balkan lake is disappearing

Lake Prespa, which is located in three Balkan countries - Albania, Greece and North Macedonia - is shrinking at a record pace. Over the past 50 years, the water level has decreased here by 8 meters. According to hydrologists' calculations, this amounts to 7% of the reservoir's area or half of its volume. Moreover, in recent years, the drying out of the lake has been accelerating. Locals don't need satellite images to confirm this. Where water splashed recently, today you can play football.

The shallowing of Prespa leads to the destruction of its unique nature. This high-mountain lake of tectonic origin is home to about a dozen rare species of fish. Prespa is also a nesting place for cormorants, herons, grebes, common and Dalmatian pelicans. To save the biodiversity of the reservoir, the three Balkan countries entered into an agreement, according to which Prespa acquired the status of a protected natural site. However, if it is still possible to somehow influence the excessive water intake in the region, then stopping climate change is a global task.

Unfortunately, so far all the actions taken by the UN and various environmental organizations aimed at combating global warming have not produced noticeable results. Last summer is proof of this. And the situation on Lake Prespa is no exception. Although 50 years of observations of the water surface of the lake, whose age is estimated at 5 million years, is not yet a final verdict. But the diagnosis has been made, and it must be taken into account.