Water scarcity persists despite recent rainfall, El Niño expected to worsen conditions

While the overall water level in the seven reservoirs stabilized at 62% over the last five days due to precipitation, after a 2% to 4% weekly decline for four months, the situation is still concerning. The La Nicolière reservoir saw its filling rate increase from 51.9% to 55.5% between Tuesday and yesterday. However, the meteorological forecast predicts below-normal rainfall between August and November, exacerbated by the strengthening El Niño phenomenon.

This poses significant challenges for professionals, particularly farmers, who face water scarcity hindering their activities. Regions like Vacoas, Moka, Midlands, Grand-Bassin, and the North received significant rainfall, with Mare-aux-Vacoas reservoir rising to 40.8% after dropping below 40%. Midlands and Bagatelle dams are stable at 80.5% and 71% respectively.

The Water Resource Monitoring Committee WRMC, under the Minister of Energy and Public Services, Patrick Assirvaden, hopes for abundant rain, but meteorologists are cautious. Raj Booneeady, Acting Director of the Vacoas meteorological station, stated that recent rains only limited damage, and while showers are possible, they won't be sufficient. A rainfall deficit was recorded from May to July 2026, and precipitation is expected to be slightly below normal from August to November 2026.

El Niño has been intens