CWSA issues Water Alert! Prepare early rationing

In the face of continuing reduced rainfall, and particularly a steep reduction in 2025 with its consequent impact on the storage systems of the Central Water and Sewer Authority (CWSA), the water distribution entity has issued an advisory to all customers make early preparations for home water storage.
The advisory states that:

“Based on information gleaned from reports provided by the SVG Met Office, the state agency responsible for the recording of rainfall and other climate related data, SVG saw approximately 50% reduction in rainfall levels during the 2025 rainy season, when compared to the previous four years.

The figures in the table below show slight fluctuations between 2020 and 2024 and then a drastic plunge in 2025:

Year 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025

Total Rainfall Recorded (mm) 1455.3 1296.7 1442.8 1386.1 1552.0 687.1

With surface and ground water aquifers not fully replenished during the 2025 rainy season, it is forecasted that the island will be facing the upcoming dry season with limited water available, compared to previous years. This is especially crucial for communities supplied by the Montreal, Dalaway and Mamoon Water sources, as based on our records, they are the first and most severely affected during periods of low rainfall and drought conditions.

“As we as a country continue to grapple with the effects of Climate Change, and with the Caribbean Climate Outlook Forum’s (CARICOF) prediction of short-term drought conditions for SVG up to March and a long-term drought up to May of 2026, the CWSA MAY be forced to adapt and change its normal operating protocols.

“The rationing of water may start earlier and for longer periods of time, as well as the implementation of stringent water conservation practices.

“The CWSA has activated its internal Emergency Management System; meaning, the close monitoring of all water sources, continued work on leak detection and repairs, heightened public awareness and the monitoring of all media outlets for public concerns.

“Homeowners are further encouraged to invest in their home water storage systems, to alleviate the impact of both planned and unplanned water disruptions.

“Kindly refer to the ‘Do-It-Yourself’ video tutorial, which describes the conversion of a plastic barrel into a water storage and distribution medium, shared on the CWSA/SWMU’s YouTube page.

“Water storage tanks can be purchased from hardware stores throughout the country, and recommended sizes are dependent on your family and household needs.

“Currently, the suggested calculation for water storage is to allocate 10 gallons per person, per day.

“The effects of Climate Change continue to intensify and have significant impacts on the Caribbean and the world over. Prolonged periods of unpredictable climate conditions have been noted.

“The CWSA commits itself to monitoring and continuing to provide necessary information we continue to navigate the upcoming dry season together.”