Archive · 21 Aug 2025
Caspian Sea Levels Drop, Affecting Ports and Wildlife
Imagine the Caspian Sea, a big lake, is getting smaller.
The water level is dropping quickly, like it's leaking.
This is causing problems for ships trying to get into ports and is making it harder for oil companies to transport oil.
Also, animals like sturgeon (which give us caviar) and seals are losing their homes because of the shrinking water.
Azerbaijan officials are concerned, saying the changing coastline is causing all these problems.
Russia believes climate change is a main cause, but Azerbaijan also points to dams on the Volga River.
Azerbaijan and Russia are working together to keep an eye on the situation and find solutions.
The Caspian Sea's water level is rapidly declining, affecting ports and marine life.
Azerbaijan officials estimate the sea level has fallen by 0.93 meters in 5 years and 2.5 meters in 30 years.
Falling water levels are disrupting economic activities and threatening sturgeon and seal populations.
Oil shipments are affected, with reduced cargo capacity and increased logistics costs.
Azerbaijan and Russia are working together, despite strained relations, to monitor and address the issue.
- Who
- Azerbaijani officials, along with Russia.
- What
- Rapidly falling water levels in the Caspian Sea.
- When
- The decline has accelerated in recent years.
- Where
- Caspian Sea, particularly affecting Azerbaijan.
- Why
- Multiple factors, including climate change and dams on the Volga River, are cited.
Azerbaijan's View
Russia's View
Cause of Sea Level Decline
Azerbaijan's View
Blames Russia's construction of dams on the Volga River.
Russia's View
Mainly blames climate change.
- Sea Level Drop (5 years)
- 0.93 meters (3 ft)
- Sea Level Drop (30 years)
- 2.5 meters
- Current Decline Rate
- 20-30 cm per year
- Affected Population (Azerbaijan Coast)
- About 4 million
- Dubendi Oil Terminal Cargo Decline (H1 2024 vs H1 2025)
- 880,000 tons vs 810,000 tons