Heatwave Causes Power and Water Crisis in Tunisia

Tunisia is grappling with an unprecedented heatwave, with temperatures soaring to a scorching 49.8 degrees Celsius (121.6 degrees Fahrenheit) in Kairouan on August 27. This extreme weather has led to widespread electricity outages and water shortages, intensifying pressure on the country's healthcare system as doctors report a surge in heat-related emergencies.

The Tunisian Observatory for Weather and Climate noted that Kairouan was the second-hottest monitored location globally, just after Mehran in Iran, which recorded 50 degrees Celsius. This spike in temperature has resulted in a record electricity demand, with the Tunisian Company of Electricity and Gas (STEG) reporting consumption hitting 6,000 megawatts last month, a significant increase from 5,600 megawatts days prior.

To manage the soaring demand, STEG has implemented rotating power cuts across various regions, resulting in outages lasting several hours, leaving many residents without electricity. This situation is particularly alarming as many areas rely on electrically powered pumping stations for water distribution. Interruptions in electricity can halt these operations, leading to further water scarcity.

On August 24, a notable power cut impacted the main Kerker pumping station, disrupting drinking water supplies in Mahdia and Sfax governorates. However, it is crucial to recognize that water shortages in Tunisia are not solely a consequence of power outages; the country has faced long-standing structural water scarcity exacerbated by recurring droughts. The World Bank has described Tunisia as facing increasing water scarcity and climate pressures.

As the heatwave persists, the demand for bottled water has surged, straining production capabilities due to power rationing and a shortage of raw materials. This has compounded the challenges for both households and businesses, with the loss of electricity affecting refrigeration and food safety.

In the wake of rising heat-related health issues, the Tunisian Organization of Young Doctors reported a significant increase in hospital admissions linked to heatstroke. They called for the government to declare a health emergency, citing 13 deaths in just 24 hours at a hospital in Sfax. The Health Ministry confirmed 633 cases of heat-related health consultations from July 1 to August 29.

President Kais Saied has suggested that some disruptions may be the result of sabotage rather than technical failures, although this remains unverified. Regardless of the causes, the public's frustration is palpable, with protests emerging over the lack of reliable electricity and water access, particularly during this extreme heat.

The current crisis underscores the interconnectedness of Tunisia's electricity and water systems, with power cuts impacting essential services. As temperatures remain high, the demand for electricity is expected to continue, potentially leading to further outages and exacerbating the ongoing water crisis.

Source: www.aljazeera.com