NWC to impose water restrictions as Mona Reservoir levels decline

National Water Commission (NWC) customers served by the Mona Reservoir in the Corporate Area are to have their water supply rationed starting Monday, August 3, due to reduced inflows caused by ongoing dry conditions.

The Mona Reservoir supplies several communities, including sections of Old Hope Road, New Kingston, Cross Roads, Mountain View, downtown Kingston and surrounding areas.

The NWC, in a statement on Monday, said the reservoir is currently at 64.7 per cent of capacity and continues to experience reduced inflows.

It noted that the decline is expected to persist in light of the Meteorological Service's July to September 2026 outlook, which indicates a 40 to 60 per cent likelihood of below-normal rainfall across much of Jamaica.

This includes a forecast of an increased probability of drier-than-normal conditions in St James, Trelawny, Portland and St Thomas, the NWC added.

The commission pointed out that the Mona watershed is affected by rainfall in both Portland and St Thomas.

Kevin Kerr, Acting President of the NWC, said the decision to regulate supplies at the 65 per cent threshold reflects the commission's commitment to proactive water management.

"Water supply regulation is not a decision we take lightly. However, introducing these measures before storage levels become critical allows us to slow the rate of decline in the reservoir and protect supplies for the thousands of customers who depend on the Mona system," said Kerr.

"Our objective is to manage the available resources responsibly while continuing to pursue every available option to supplement supplies and minimise disruption to our customers," he continued.

The NWC said the regulations are intended to reduce demand on the reservoir, extend the availability of stored water and lessen the likelihood of more severe restrictions should the dry conditions continue.

Customers are encouraged to prepare for the adjusted supply schedule by ensuring their water storage facilities are clean and functional, storing water responsibly during periods of supply, repairing leaks on their premises and practising water conservation at all times.

The NWC said it will continue to closely monitor reservoir levels, rainfall patterns and system performance.

The commission stated that the planned water regulations represent the phased implementation of its water management strategy, aimed at protecting the integrity of the water supply system and preserving available storage for as long as possible.

Prior to this decision, the NWC said it implemented several measures to bolster supplies and improve system resilience, including the recommissioning of groundwater wells to provide additional water, strategic transfers of water between supply systems, and intensified leak detection and repair activities across the network.

Follow The Gleaner on X, formerly Twitter, and Instagram @JamaicaGleaner and on Facebook @GleanerJamaica. Send us a message on WhatsApp at 1-876-499-0169 or email us at onlinefeedback@gleanerjm.com or editors@gleanerjm.com.