Mare-aux-Vacoas Reservoir Could Hit Critical 20% Level by End of November

Mauritius's most important freshwater reservoir, Mare-aux-Vacoas, is continuing to fall at an alarming rate and could reach the critical threshold of 20% capacity by the end of November, according to a report by Le Défi Media. The warning comes as the island heads into the dry season with reservoir levels already well below normal. Authorities and water managers are closely monitoring the situation as the risk of severe water shortages grows. **Why 20% matters** In Mauritius, a reservoir level of 20% is considered a critical alert threshold. Once a major reservoir falls to this point, the Central Water Authority (CWA) — the government body responsible for water supply across the island — is typically forced to implement significant emergency measures. These can include extended water-cut schedules, reduced supply hours, and priority rationing for essential services such as hospitals and the food industry. Mare-aux-Vacoas, located in the central highlands of Mauritius near Vacoas-Phoenix, is the island's largest reservoir and a cornerstone of the national water supply. It serves a large portion of the population, particularly in the central and western regions. When its levels drop sharply, the knock-on effect is felt island-wide. **A worsening trend** The reservoir has been under pressure for weeks. Earlier reporting noted it had already fallen to 38.7%, triggering warnings of tighter water cuts. The continued decline, without significant rainfall to reverse the trend, means the situation has deteriorated further and faster than many hoped. Mauritius typically relies on the summer cyclone season — which runs from November to April — to replenish its reservoirs. However, rainfall during the transition period between the dry and wet seasons is often unpredictable and insufficient to avert a crisis if the deficit is large enough. **What this means for residents** If the 20% level is reached, households across many parts of Mauritius should expect: - **Longer or more frequent water cuts**, potentially exceeding the current rationing schedules already in place in some areas. - **Increased pressure on water storage** at home — residents are advised to ensure tanks and containers are maintained and clean. - **Possible emergency measures** from the CWA, including appeals to reduce water consumption in homes, businesses, hotels, and agriculture. The tourism sector, which relies heavily on consistent water supply, could also be affected, particularly as the peak tourist season approaches. **What to watch** The key factor in the coming weeks will be rainfall. Even moderate but sustained rain over the central plateau — where most of Mauritius's reservoirs are located — could slow or reverse the decline. Authorities are likely to issue updated guidance as the situation develops. Residents are encouraged to follow official communications from the CWA and to practice water conservation measures immediately, without waiting for official emergency declarations. Source: Le Défi Media