Severe Drought Forces Stricter Water Rationing in St Vincent and the Grenadines

The Central Water and Sewage Authority (CWSA) of St Vincent and the Grenadines has implemented stricter water rationing measures in five communities due to worsening drought conditions. The affected areas include Dalaway, Mamoon, Majorca, Montreal, and John Hill supply systems, which have been upgraded to "red zone" status, indicating a high risk to the water supply and the need for strict conservation.

Why this matters: The severe drought conditions in St Vincent and the Grenadines have significant implications for the country's food security, economy, and public health. If left unaddressed, the drought could lead to widespread crop failures, increased food prices, and water-borne diseases.

Under the new rationing protocols, non-essential activities such as car washing and power washing are prohibited in the affected communities. The CWSA has announced daily water supply disruptions from 8pm to 5am and 10am to 2pm or 4pm, which will remain in effect until further notice. "The days will continue to be hot and humid. The highest chance of a few showers increases from Sunday night, with Monday forecast to be occasionally cloudy with a chance of few scattered showers," said Desiree Neverson-Jack, forecaster at St Vincent and the Grenadines Meteorological Services.

The severe drought conditions are being exacerbated by Saharan dust intrusion, which limits shower activity and reduces visibility and air quality. Rivers and reservoirs across the archipelago are at low levels, prompting the need for strict water conservation measures. Member of Parliament for the Southern Grenadines, Terrance Ollivierre, recently raised the issue of drought in Parliament, highlighting the severity of the situation.

The water rationing measures were first implemented a month ago for some communities and have now been extended to more areas. The CWSA is scheduled to hold a press briefing on Tuesday, May 14 to discuss the issue with local media and provide further updates on the drought situation and conservation efforts.

As the drought persists, residents in the affected communities of Dalaway, Mamoon, Majorca, Montreal, and John Hill are advised to store adequate water for their homes and businesses during the hours when the supply is available. The CWSA emphasizes that the strict rationing measures will continue until conditions improve at the water sources.

Key Takeaways

• Stricter water rationing in 5 St Vincent communities due to drought.
• Drought poses risks to food security, economy, and public health.
• Non-essential water use banned; daily supply disruptions in effect.
• Saharan dust intrusion exacerbates drought, reduces shower activity.
• Residents advised to store water during available hours.