Ongoing drought causes significant decline in water supply from some major surface systems

October 1, 2026

Hydrogeologist at the Water Resources Authority, Maurice Wallace, has indicated that the ongoing drought has caused a significant decline in water supply from some major surface systems.

Weather forecasters have warned that the country is already experiencing worsening drought conditions, closely linked to the unusually strong El Niño.

Mr. Wallace said surface water systems supplying the Mona Treatment plant in St. Andrew, the Alligator Church Water System in Rio Grande, Portland, and the Rio Bueno Water Station in Trelawny, are among those affected by the drought.

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Wallace said significant rainfall deficits, as well as the impact of hurricanes Melissa and Beryl, are among the climate-driven risks affecting Jamaica’s water security.

He added that flooding damaged the country’s water infrastructure.

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