The world’s water resources are facing increasingly unpredictable conditions, according to a new United Nations report.

The World Meteorological Organization said 2025 was among the driest years for rivers. The findings cover more than three decades of global river conditions.

The report also found widespread glacier loss during the year. Glaciers shrank across all regions despite 2025 being among the warmest years recorded.

Groundwater levels also continued to decline in many parts of the world. The findings raise concerns about the long-term availability of freshwater.

The WMO’s annual State of Global Water Resources report examined global freshwater storage. This includes groundwater, rivers, lakes, soil moisture, vegetation, ice and snow.

The report found that overall freshwater storage continued its decade-long decline. Scientists also noted differences in how parts of the water cycle respond.

Rainfall, river flows and soil moisture can change quickly. These elements can respond to weather conditions within days or weeks.

Groundwater and glaciers change much more slowly. WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo described these resources as important reserves.

She said these slow-moving reserves have traditionally provided protection during dry periods. They can help reduce the impact of individual droughts and dry seasons.

However, the report suggests these reserves are now being depleted. Saulo warned that the world is increasingly using its long-term water supplies.

Glacier losses have become particularly significant in recent years. The year 2025 marked the fourth straight year of major ice loss worldwide.

Between 2023 and 2025, glaciers lost around 1,400 gigatonnes of water. This amount is roughly equal to 560 million Olympic-sized swimming pools.

The report also highlighted concerning groundwater trends. Nearly two-thirds of monitored wells showed conditions outside historical norms in 2025.

These changes are occurring alongside an increase in water-related disasters. Floods and droughts are creating different risks across regions.

The WMO also highlighted the effects of El Nino on global weather patterns. El Nino is the warm phase of a natural climate cycle.

It occurs every two to seven years and affects ocean temperatures in the Pacific. The pattern can also change rainfall and wind conditions worldwide.

The WMO warned that the current El Nino could increase drought risks in some regions. Other areas may face a higher risk of flooding.

River conditions were already showing unpredictable patterns before the El Nino developed. The WMO said 2025 was among the three driest years for rivers.

Only about 36 percent of monitored river basins recorded normal flows. Another 36 percent experienced below-normal discharge.

Around 21 percent of river basins recorded above-normal flows. The figures show major differences in water conditions worldwide.

The WMO stressed the need for reliable water data and stronger monitoring systems. Significant data gaps remain in areas affected by water-related events.

Saulo also highlighted the importance of international cooperation. Rivers often cross national borders, making shared information essential.

Water flowing from one country can directly affect another country downstream. Glacier-related disasters can also create cross-border consequences.

The report shows how unpredictable water conditions can affect communities worldwide. It also highlights the need to protect freshwater reserves and improve early warnings.

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