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Baath Dam
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The Baath Dam is a regulatory dam on the Euphrates River, located approximately 27 kilometers downstream from the much larger Tabqa Dam. It was constructed between 1983 and 1986 primarily to regulate the irregular water discharge from the Tabqa power plant and ensure a steady water supply for downstream irrigation. The integrated hydroelectric station features three turbines with a total installed capacity of 81 megawatts. While its power output is modest compared to Syria's larger dams, its role in preventing riverbank erosion and stabilizing the riverbed is vital. The dam creates a small reservoir that also serves as a source for local drinking water projects in the Raqqa governorate. The facility is an essential part of Syria's water resource management infrastructure in the Euphrates Valley, contributing to regional stability.
- Location: Syria
- Top sights: Tall Sudayyin · Tall Ballanah · Jabal Sharat al Hajar
- Nearby: Al-Thawrah (22 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 6 | 8 | 12 | 17 | 23 | 28 | 32 | 32 | 28 | 22 | 13 | 7 |
| Rain mm | 48 | 41 | 35 | 27 | 15 | 3 | 0 | 1 | 3 | 20 | 32 | 52 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Baath Dam acts as a crucial regulating dam on the mighty Euphrates River, located downstream from the larger Tabqa Dam. It plays a significant dual role in managing the water flow for extensive irrigation networks and contributing steadily to the regional electricity grid.
Visiting
Given the sensitive nature of major water and power infrastructure in the region, direct tourist access to the dam's internal facilities is strictly prohibited. However, the expansive reservoir it creates and the impressive concrete spillways can usually be admired from nearby public vantage points.
Where to view it
Public highways traversing the Euphrates River valley offer the safest and most accessible vantage points for viewing the Baath Dam. Looking from the riverbanks or higher ground along the valley allows visitors to fully grasp the sweeping scale of this strategic waterway project.
Local products
The dam directly sustains the immense agricultural output of the surrounding Euphrates basin rather than selling commercial products. When passing through local villages, travelers will frequently encounter fresh crops, wheat, and spirited agricultural markets made possible entirely by the dam's irrigation control.
Active season
Water regulation and power generation occur constantly year-round at the dam. Springtime is exceptionally remarkable for a drive-by viewing, as the water levels are typically at their highest from winter rains, and the surrounding agricultural lands are vividly green and bustling with activity.
Nearby
A journey to see the Baath Dam pairs excellently with exploring the broader Euphrates region, including the imposing Lake Assad and the historical fortress of Qal'at Ja'bar upstream. This route gives a profound look at both ancient history and the monumental modern engineering of Syria.
Geography
Facts
- The Baath Dam was completed in 1986 after three years of construction work.
- The hydroelectric plant has an installed capacity of 81 megawatts from three units.
- Its primary function is to serve as a reregulating reservoir for the Tabqa Dam upstream.
- The dam helps in preventing riverbank erosion throughout the Euphrates valley.
- The reservoir created by the dam has a storage capacity of 90 million cubic meters.
- The facility is located approximately 22 kilometers west of the city of Raqqa.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Baath Dam (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Baath dam?
A smaller hydroelectric plant and dam on the Euphrates.
Is it accessible to visitors?
No, it is an operational site without tourist facilities.
What role does it play in the river course?
It serves to regulate the water level and generate energy.
What is the environment like?
Rural and agricultural in nature.
Are there dangers?
Keep away from technical installations and security fences.
Baath Dam: where is it located?
Baath Dam is located in Syria.
Baath Dam: what is there to see?
Highlights include Tall Sudayyin, Tall Ballanah, Jabal Sharat al Hajar.
Baath Dam: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Oct.
Baath Dam: why is it worth visiting?
The Baath Dam is a regulatory dam on the Euphrates River, located approximately 27 kilometers downstream from the much larger Tabqa Dam.
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Nearby cities
Ar-Raqqah
Ar-Raqqah is located on the north bank of the Euphrates and was historically a major center of the Abbasid caliphs.
Al-Thawrah
Al-Thawrah, also known as Tabqa, is a modern city on the Euphrates, founded in the 1960s during the construction of the Tabqa Dam.
Lake Assad
Syria's largest reservoir, created by the Tabqa Dam on the Euphrates, a major center for agriculture and nature.
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