A mandatory water rationing was imposed in Koror and Airai starting yesterday, leading to water supply interruptions that are scheduled every 9 p.m. to 5 a.m.
In a public advisory, the National Emergency Committee (NEC)advised the public to conserve water after it declared Palau under Water Shortage Alert level 2 starting March 24.
[restrict]
The alert came after it was observed that water reservoir levels at Ngerimel and Ngerikiil in Airai, the two main sources of water supply in Palau, had dropped drastically in recent weeks due to scarce rainfall and high consumption of water.
Ngerimel Dam’s water level was noted to be at 10.5 ft. or 45% while the Ngerikiil Dam water level was also at 7.9 ft. or 98% as of March 24.
The total water production of the two reservoirs producing only 72% of water supply, prompted NEC to declare Palau under Stage 2 of the Water Shortage alert.
Based on the 2017 NEC Drought Action Plan, the declaration of mandatory rationing should be imposed when water supply reaches 65-85%. At this level, the goal is to reduce water demand by 15-35%.
NEC continues to urge the public to conserve water and detect and repair water leaks among pipes in government properties, business establishments and residences.
The data from the Palau National Weather Service Office indicated that February, March, and April are normally dry season in Palau with only minimal rainfall. (Rhealyn C. Pojas/Reporter)[/restrict]