Island Warming

It finally happened. We needed water to be delivered to the house. The locals have talked about the lack of rain since I've been here. And while we have had some sporadic showers, it's not been enough. Ironically the offshore rain (the stuff we can see in the horizon) has been prolific lately, but it doesn't hit land, so not helpful to fill the cistern below the front porch of the house. So like ordering a pizza, we called the government to bring a load. For about $180 U.S. the truck backs up to the "fill" and we got a "load" of water. Seems like a lot, but if you calculate 8 full time residents and all our visitors using it for cooking, flushing the toilet and showering, you get the picture. It won't last long.  Ironically it is the first time in many years that the cistern has needed filling according to the landlord. We are so, so dependent on rain and if the trend  of less rain continues, it is clearly a problem for this island.  I doubt that the desalinization plant can keep up with the demand for everyone, and the cost will be prohibitive for many.

We just learned about the health care phenomenon of "desertification" ...when I place turns to dust due to lack of water and the healthcare risks. I shudder to think of that happening here. Hopefully it will be well after I am done with school.  At the very least it'll be a great public health project for someone.