Jamaica to impose water restrictions as dry conditions persist

Jamaica is set to impose water restrictions across seven parishes as below-normal rainfall and above-normal temperatures are expected to continue through the end of August.

Water, Environment and Climate Change Minister Matthew Samuda said in social media posts that the latest rainfall outlook shows a higher likelihood of below-normal rainfall across Jamaica and parts of the wider Caribbean through Aug. 29.

According to the outlook, below-normal rainfall is expected during the periods Aug. 9-15, Aug. 16-22 and Aug. 23-29.

Samuda also said above-normal temperatures are expected across Jamaica during the same periods.

“Residents and farmers are encouraged to conserve water, plan ahead, and stay updated with local weather advisories, as drier-than-usual conditions may persist,” Samuda said.

He also urged residents to stay hydrated, limit prolonged exposure to the midday heat and check on children, older people and other vulnerable individuals as temperatures remain elevated.

The warnings come as the Ministry of Water, Environment and Climate Change, through the National Water Commission (NWC), prepares to introduce water restrictions in seven parishes.

The ministry said it will issue a water prohibition notice Wednesday, Aug. 12, with the new measure taking effect Monday, Aug. 17.

The prohibition orders will apply to Kingston, St. Andrew, St. Thomas, St. Mary, Portland, St. Ann and St. Catherine and will remain in force until further notice.

According to the ministry, the decision follows a high-level stakeholder meeting Monday involving the NWC and the Meteorological Service, which confirmed that rainfall levels remain critically low and temperatures continue to soar.

Under the orders, no person will be permitted to use or cause water supplied by the NWC to be used for nonessential or unusual purposes.

The prohibited activities include:

• Irrigating or watering gardens, lawns, grounds and farms;
• Refilling or supplying ponds or swimming pools, or using water for purposes other than normal domestic services such as drinking, cooking, washing, bathing and sanitation;
• Washing vehicles with a hose;
• Watering or washing roadways, pavements, paths, garages or outrooms; and
• Any activity requiring excessive or unusual quantities of water.

Samuda acknowledged that the restrictions could have an economic impact on some businesses, including car washes, but said the measures were necessary to protect Jamaica’s water supply.

“We understand that there is some disproportionate economic impact on commercial operations, such as car washes, and we have not taken this decision lightly,” he said.

“Ultimately, our priority is to maintain supply to critical services, especially schools, as we prepare for the September reopening.”

Samuda also warned that sanctions will be applied to individuals and entities found to be in breach of the prohibition orders.

“These penalties are intended to ensure compliance and protect the integrity of Jamaica’s water supply during this critical period,” he said.

The government is encouraging residents and farmers to conserve water and plan ahead as the country faces the prospect of continued dry conditions and elevated temperatures.