Drought concerns persist in North Okanagan and Barbados

Various regions are facing ongoing water scarcity and drought concerns. In the North Okanagan, Stage 3 water restrictions will remain in place despite community conservation efforts. While residents and the agricultural sector helped meet conservation goals and avoid increased restrictions, water sources remain well below historic averages, and forecasts suggest continued challenges into 2027.

In Barbados, the Barbados Meteorological Service has maintained an elevated hydrological drought warning through October. Due to below-average rainfall through August, officials are urging the public to continue conserving water. The outlook suggests a slow recharge of reservoirs and aquifers, with potential agricultural drought risks for the remainder of 2026, particularly in the southern and eastern sections of the island.