Hermitage Dam at 31.4%; NWC tightens water supply to sections of Kingston and St Andrew

The National Water Commission (NWC) is implementing stricter water supply schedules for customers in sections of Kingston and St Andrew, citing ongoing severe drought conditions affecting its Constant Spring network. The revised schedule, effective Monday, August 24, will remain in place until further notice as part of an enhanced drought-management strategy to conserve water resources.

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The NWC acknowledges that some communities may experience challenges receiving water according to the schedule due to factors including location, terrain and elevation.

Storage levels at the Hermitage Dam continue to decline, currently standing at 31.4% of capacity. This significant reduction is the primary driver behind the NWC's decision to adjust the water supply. Under the new plan, water will be supplied daily between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. to numerous communities, including Queensborough, Meadowbrook Estate, Cassia Park, and sections of Molynes Road and Half-Way-Tree Road.

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Customers requiring trucked water may contact the NWC Customer Care Centre toll-free at 888-225-5692.

Other areas, such as Norbrook, Cherry Gardens, and Oakridge, will also receive water during this morning to evening period. Conversely, sections of Red Hills Road, Woodhaven, Maverley, and various other communities will have water supplied between 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. daily. This includes areas like Dunrobin Avenue, Constant Spring Road, and Grants Pen.

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The NWC is urging customers to ensure they have adequate water storage to last through non-supply hours and to carefully manage their stored supplies.

The NWC acknowledges that factors like location, terrain, and elevation may pose challenges for some communities in receiving water according to the schedule. To assist, trucked water will be provided upon request by contacting the NWC Customer Care Centre. Customers are urged to ensure they have adequate water storage for non-supply hours and to manage their stored water carefully. A prohibition notice remains in effect, barring all non-essential water use such as washing vehicles, watering lawns, and filling swimming pools.

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The utility company is also reminding customers that a prohibition notice is currently in effect and that they must desist from all non-essential water use, including washing vehicles, watering lawns and gardens, filling pools and pressure-washing driveways.