WASCO Reports Significant Water Reduction At Intakes

The Water and Sewerage Company Inc. (WASCO) acknowledges the concerning reduction in water levels at various abstraction points islandwide as a result of the ongoing dry conditions affecting Saint Lucia. The prolonged dry spell, due in part to a significant decrease in precipitation levels and to the effects of climate change, have resulted in diminished water resource capacity. Production has significantly decreased at the intakes that supply the island’s north. Additionally, our raw water catchments at Talvern and Marquis, Babonneau which supply the Hill 20 Treatment Plant have also registered a notable reduction in inflow levels. Production on the southern network has decreased by 50 percent, with some variation in specific areas. As a result, the drop in raw water availability has presented challenges to our water treatment processes and has led to supply constraints for consumers relying on our water distribution system. In the interim, WASCO has implemented adjustments to optimize its operations, the treatment process and the maintenance of water quality standards, despite the reduced inflow. We encourage all customers to exercise prudent water usage practices to mitigate the impacts of the dry season and other extreme weather events. As part of conservation efforts to ensure the sustainability...