Mauritius Water Crisis: Mare-aux-Vacoas Falls Below 40% Capacity
Mauritius reservoirs hold just 62.4% of total capacity as of September 17, 2026 — far below last year's 93.3% and the historical average of 78.3%.
By MauritiusNews Editorial3 days ago👁 0 views
Mauritius is facing a deepening water shortage, with the island's reservoirs at critically low levels heading into the final stretch of the dry season.
According to the latest figures published by the Water Resources Commission — the government body that monitors the island's water supply under the Ministry of Energy and Public Utilities — total reservoir storage stood at 57.57 million cubic metres as of September 17, 2026. That represents a fill rate of just 62.4% across all of Mauritius's major water catchments.
**A Sharp Drop From Last Year**
The figures paint a stark picture when compared to the same date in 2025, when reservoirs held 86.03 million cubic metres — equivalent to 93.3% of total capacity. The current level also falls well short of the historical average for mid-September, which sits at 72.15 million cubic metres, or 78.3% capacity.
In practical terms, Mauritius is carrying roughly 28 million cubic metres less water than it did a year ago at this time of year.
**Mare-aux-Vacoas in the Spotlight**
The most alarming drop is at Mare-aux-Vacoas, the largest reservoir in Mauritius, located in the central highlands near Curepipe. Its total capacity is 25.89 million cubic metres, but as of September 17 it contained only 10.32 million cubic metres — a fill rate of just 39.9%.
At the same point in 2025, Mare-aux-Vacoas was at 93.1% capacity, holding 24.11 million cubic metres. Its typical level for this time of year is around 77.5% — meaning it is currently running at barely half its normal seasonal volume.
Mare-aux-Vacoas is a critical source of drinking water for a large portion of the Mauritian population, particularly in the Central Plateau region, making its decline especially concerning for households and the Central Water Authority (CWA), which manages distribution.
**What This Means for Mauritians**
Mauritius typically experiences its driest months between May and October, with rainfall picking up again during the summer wet season from November onwards. The current deficit means the island is entering the final weeks of the dry period with very limited reserves — a situation that raises the risk of water rationing or restricted supply schedules if rainfall does not arrive soon.
The Water Resources Commission and the CWA have not yet announced formal restrictions, but the data suggests the situation will require close monitoring. Residents, particularly in areas served by Mare-aux-Vacoas, should be prepared for the possibility of intermittent supply.
For businesses, hotels, and agricultural operators — all of which rely heavily on consistent water access — a prolonged shortfall could have economic consequences as the tourist high season approaches.
Source: ION News
Frequently Asked Questions
How full are Mauritius reservoirs in September 2026?−
As of September 17, 2026, Mauritius reservoirs collectively held 57.57 million cubic metres of water, representing a fill rate of 62.4% — significantly below the historical average of 78.3% and last year's level of 93.3% for the same date.
What is the current level of Mare-aux-Vacoas reservoir?−
Mare-aux-Vacoas, the largest reservoir in Mauritius located near Curepipe in the central highlands, was at 39.9% capacity on September 17, 2026 — holding just 10.32 million cubic metres out of a total capacity of 25.89 million cubic metres. It was at 93.1% at the same time in 2025.
Could there be water rationing in Mauritius in 2026?−
No formal rationing has been announced, but with reservoir levels at multi-year lows heading into the final weeks of the dry season, the Central Water Authority (CWA) may implement supply restrictions if rainfall does not recover. Residents in areas served by Mare-aux-Vacoas are most at risk of intermittent supply.
