WASA Issues Warning on Water Shortages Amid 2025 Dry Season

WASA warns of impending water shortages in Trinidad and Tobago as the 2025 dry season impacts supply levels. Key reservoirs are showing declines due to high temperatures and rainfall deficits. Cutbacks and distribution adjustments are anticipated; new water management projects seek to address these challenges.

The Water and Sewerage Authority (WASA) has issued warnings regarding potential water shortages as the 2025 dry season affects Trinidad and Tobago’s water supply. During a news conference at the Caroni Water Treatment Plant, WASA Chief Executive Keithroy Halliday acknowledged that the dry season, peaking mid-March, will likely exacerbate existing shortages, a situation exacerbated by climate change.

Shaira Ali, Director of Water Management Services (North West), indicated that critical reservoir levels have begun to diminish as high temperatures and scarce rainfall take their toll. The Arena Reservoir, vital to the Caroni Water Treatment Plant, currently stands at 73.8% capacity—10% below the long-term average—while the Hollis Dam, supplying the Hollis Water Treatment Facility, is slightly above average at 77%.

Ali noted that as the dry season progresses, reservoir levels are anticipated to decline further. Over 620 million gallons have been released from the Arena Reservoir to maintain water supply, although these levels remain 10% below normal. Despite early rainfall in January that enabled some recovery, February has seen only 41mm, leading to declines across reservoirs.

Given the situation, cutbacks in water distribution are anticipated to sustain supplies through the remainder of the dry season. Ali confirmed that distribution schedules will be adjusted to ensure fair access for customers across affected areas including sections of Arima Old Road, San Juan, and Gran Couva.

Sharon Bailey, Director of Water Management Services, Central, reported ongoing projects aimed at alleviating water supply issues, such as the immediate commencement of two new wells and an aged pipeline replacement project to address system inefficiencies.

Anand Jaggernath, also the Director of Water Management Services South, updated that stored water in local dams is currently above the long-term average. In Tobago, water supply faces a 14% reduction, according to Brian Williams, the local director of Water Management Services.

In summary, the onset of the 2025 dry season has raised alarms over potential water shortages in Trinidad and Tobago, exacerbated by climate change. WASA is actively managing reservoir levels to mitigate shortages while implementing adjustments to water distribution schedules. Furthermore, new projects aim to improve supply sustainability and address existing deficiencies. Authorities emphasize the need for proactive management to navigate the challenges presented by diminishing water resources.

Original Source: trinidadexpress.com