Antigua and Barbuda is now producing approximately 8.5 million gallons of water per day despite experiencing one of its most severe droughts in decades.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne made the disclosure during Saturday’s edition of the Browne and Browne radio programme, describing the achievement as evidence of the significant investments his administration has made in water infrastructure.

“We have not had a good shower of rain for about nine months. Yet we are still producing an average of about 8.5 million gallons of water every day,” Browne said.

The Prime Minister noted that Potworks Dam is practically dry and that the country has little surface water available.

He referenced recent reports from the Meteorological Office indicating that May was the driest month recorded since 1928.

Despite these challenges, Browne said Antigua and Barbuda has avoided a national water crisis because of the Government’s extensive investments in reverse osmosis plants and desalination facilities.

He acknowledged that some communities continue to experience intermittent water shortages but said efforts are underway to address those issues.

The Prime Minister further announced that the country will add another two million gallons of production capacity before the end of the year.

According to Browne, APUA plans to install an additional 1.5 million-gallon plant at Crabs and a 400,000-gallon facility at Friars Hill using equipment donated by the Government of Japan.

He said the additional production will significantly improve water security and place the country in a stronger position to withstand future drought conditions.