NamWater urges water rationing in Swakopmund and Arandis

By: Hertha Ekandjo

NamWater has announced a significant reduction in potable water supply from the Orano Desalination Plant, which serves the coastal towns of Swakopmund and Arandis.

The disruption, caused by sulphur upwelling in the Atlantic Ocean, began on Tuesday, 8 April 2025, and has already resulted in critically low reservoir levels.

According to NamWater, the upwelling, an oceanic phenomenon influenced by weather patterns has affected the operations of the desalination plant, which is a primary source of drinking water for the two towns.

As a result, Swakopmund’s reservoirs have dropped below 50% capacity, while Arandis’ reserves have fallen below 30%.

“These weather-related disruptions are beyond our control and are expected to continue for at least the next five days, possibly longer,” NamWater said in a statement.

NamWater has advised the Arandis town council to implement temporary water rationing measures to preserve remaining reserves and prevent a complete depletion of the system.

Water rationing schedule for Arandis:

Effective dates: 14 April 2025 to 18 April 2025

Daily water cut-off time: 22:00 to 04:00 Residents are urged to use water sparingly and prepare for reduced availability during the scheduled rationing hours.