Yabakei Dam water levels drop below 30% in Nakatsu City

In Nakatsu City, Oita Prefecture, the Yabakei Dam is facing a critical water shortage due to a lack of rainfall since the end of the rainy season. After the reservoir level dropped below 40% on August 23, the city implemented water intake restrictions for the first time in eight years. As of August 27, the storage rate has continued to decline, falling below 30%.

The shortage is impacting local education; the Nakatsu City Board of Education has announced that planned swimming lessons for two middle schools in the second semester will be suspended unless restrictions are lifted. To manage the crisis, the city is considering “pressure reduction water supply” (reducing water flow from taps) and has already installed tanks at four locations to serve as water supply points.

Mayor Okuzuka stated that the city must prepare for the worst-case scenario. If current weather patterns persist, the reservoir level is projected to reach 0% by approximately September 11. Local authorities are actively urging citizens to conserve water through community outreach and digital platforms.