Water Ministry and NWC to issue prohibition notice on Wednesday August 12

August 10, 2026

The Ministry of Water, through the National Water Commission (NWC), will be issuing a water prohibition notice on Wednesday August 12, with the measure taking effect next Monday, August 17.

The decision follows a high level stakeholder meeting earlier today with the NWC and the Met Service, which confirmed that rainfall levels remain critically low and temperatures continue to soar.

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

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

Prohibited activities include:
· Irrigation or watering of gardens, lawns, grounds, and farms;
· Refilling or supplying of ponds or swimming pools and/ for use other than normal domestic services such as drinking, cooking, washing, bathing, and sanitation; washing of vehicles with the use of a hose.
· Watering or washing of roadways, pavements, paths, garages, or outrooms; or any activity requiring excessive or unusual quantities of water.

Water Minister Matthew Samuda, acknowledged that there will be some disproportionate economic impact on commercial operations, such as car washes.

Samuda underscored the necessity of the measures, adding that the Government has not taken this decision lightly.

He said ultimately, the priority is to maintain supply to critical services, especially schools, as the country prepares for the start of the new academic year in September.

The Minister further advised that sanctions will be applied to individuals and entities found in breach of the prohibition orders.

He said these penalties are intended to ensure compliance and protect the integrity of Jamaica’s water supply during this critical period.

Samuda said the ministry will continue to monitor rainfall, reservoir levels, and storage capacity, then provide updates as conditions evolve.