Ruptly
"Rising water levels of Lake Mashqita in Latakia, caused by this season's heavy rains, have cut off the village of Wata al-Shir in the town of Al-Bahuliya from its surroundings, making it difficult for residents to get around and forcing them to use wooden boats to get about. Flash flooding in northwestern Syria has triggered rising water levels, leaving villages submerged and residents isolated in Latakia on Friday. Footage shows the village of Wata al-Shir surrounded by the overflowing Lake Mashqita, with the sole bridge to the small island submerged, while homes and property lie partially underwater. "In the winter and during the rainy season, the dam rises and overflows. We use rudimentary boats to get around, ferrying people from one place to another. For those who need medicine from the island or elsewhere, we provide the supplies and help one another. Here in the village, we face difficulties crossing," said Fares, a resident. "The island you can see behind me is known as Al-Qasr Island; it is an old island comprising around six houses, and its inhabitants rely on farming and fishing, particularly from the dam here," added Abu Yarub, another resident. Al-Qasr Island in the village of Wata al-Shir is one of the smallest inhabited islands in the world, covering an area of just 12 dunums (12,000 square metres), and is situated within the vicinity of the 16 Tishreen Dam. Agriculture remains vital and is reportedly the main source of livelihood for the seven families living on the island."
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