DC Area Residents Asked To Conserve Water As Drought Continues

WASHINGTON, DC — As dry conditions linger in the Washington, D.C., region, residents are being asked to conserve water amid a drought watch. Low rainfall amounts are expected to continue throughout the fall and winter, the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments said Thursday.

The drought watch was extended Wednesday to nearly six million residents. Both residents and businesses are asked to take voluntary measures to conserve water and help reduce demand on the region's water supply systems.

The drought watch, now in its fourth month, is the first declared since 2010.

Following the regional Drought Response Plan, officials said there is currently an adequate supply of water in the Potomac River and back-up reservoirs. If conditions worsen and a drought warning is enacted, more water restrictions would be requested and could become mandatory.

Wednesday was the 35th day in a row without measurable rain, breaking the previous longest spell of 34 days set in 2007, according to The Washington Post's Capital Weather Gang.

"It will probably remain drier than normal for much of this month, although it’s also likely that the rainless streak will end by Sunday or Monday," The Post said. … "The District has fallen about 3.8 inches short of its typical rainfall over the period. River levels have fallen rapidly, and wildfires have erupted in parts of Maryland as abundant sunshine has pushed temperatures to well above normal."

Fire safety and protection are concerns because of the dry conditions, with the region in the fall fire season, with an increased risk for wildfires, a COG news release said.

The majority of the Potomac River basin is under a ban on open air burning — the State of Maryland, West Virginia, and Delaware have implemented statewide burn bans, with some Virginia and Pennsylvania counties implementing similar restrictions.

Officials urge residents to use extra caution when smoking outside, using outdoor grills, or engaging in other activities that involve flammable materials. Check current fire weather conditions provided by the National Weather Service

Wise Water Use Tips

Here are tips residents can use to limit outdoor and indoor water use:

• Monitor watering lawns, plants and shrubs;
• Sweep sidewalks and driveways (instead of using a hose);
• Avoid washing your car, or instead use a commercial car wash that recycles water;
• Fix any plumbing leaks – especially toilets and faucets;
• Reduce shower length to under 5 minutes;
• Turn off water while brushing your teeth; and
• Wash full loads of dishes and clothes.

A detailed list of tips for wise water use can be found at mwcog.org/wisewater.