A drought alert was issued today, September 28, for Niuatoputapu by the Tonga Meteorological Services.

Rainfall has been very low recording only 1.0mm from the last week of August to September 5.

Tonga Met said the drought alert for Niuatoputapu was based on the amount of rain that had fallen in the past three-weeks, which had been extremely low. There were reports of water deficiency and drought conditions in the island.

Also the rainfall forecast for the next 10-days points to below average rainfall. 

“Because we are still in the dry season and with the 10-day predictions pointing to drier conditions, Niuatoputapu Island Groups are placed under drought alerts, water rationing measures should start to be put in place,” said Tonga Met.

Monitor household water supply

Households are advised to closely monitor and look after their water supply in the next three to six-months. 

“If your water supply is rainwater only consider rationing and prioritizing your water usage for drinking, cooking and wash only. Preserve water and collect as much rain water as possible.”

Tonga Met says that agriculture needs careful drought planning and actions that need to be implemented now, include:

• Prepare enough water if it can be spared for irrigating of water dependent crops;
• Apply mulching to the soil around crops to keep as much soil moisture in the ground;
• Plant drought resistant crops over the next 6 months e.g. cassava and lose yam;
• Discuss with your local MAFFF Extension Officer on how to safeguard your crops from drought;
• Follow the 10-day rainfall forecast provided by the Met Office daily.

Prolonged drought always brings with it health risks. Drinking and using contaminated water could result in illnesses such as diarrhea and typhoid. And some skin diseases could be experienced due to lack of water for proper sanitation. 

“Consider, boiling drinking water from water catchments. For those who pump ground water for usage, please consult with the Geology Division of the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources on proper pump and ground water management during drought situations if prolonged dry periods are experienced,” said Tonga Met.

Town Officers and NGOs are urged to work closely with your communities’ groups to monitor and gauge the water availability and report to NEMO or Ministry of Internal Affairs of any water shortages or difficulties that start to arise.