As the region experiences unusually dry conditions that are expected to persist despite recent rainfall, a Drought Watch was put into effect today by the Drought Coordination Committee of the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG). Residents and businesses in the metropolitan Washington region are being asked to take voluntary measures to conserve water and help reduce demand on the region's water supply systems. The regional drought watch applies to nearly six million residents across metropolitan Washington.

Following the regional drought response plan, officials emphasized that while there currently is an adequate supply of water in the Potomac River and back-up reservoirs, implementing voluntary water conservation practices across the region will help complement measures already in place and reduce water demand and environmental needs of the river. A Drought Watch is the level in the plan before Drought Warning, when additional water restrictions are requested and could become mandatory should conditions worsen.

“As officials continue to closely monitor drought conditions in the region, it is important for the public to use water wisely”, said Clark Mercer, COG Executive Director, adding that “with a few simple measures, we can all aid in water conservation efforts and help ensure an adequate water supply for our region.”

“Due to years of planning and preparation, our water supply infrastructure is well-equipped to handle drought. Nevertheless, it makes sense for all of us to use water wisely and not waste this precious resource,” stated Michael Nardolilli, the executive director of the Interstate Commission on the Potomac River Basin (ICPRB). He noted that ICPRB is monitoring the Potomac River flow daily and is working with several federal agencies, regional partners, and the area water suppliers to assess the situation in real time.

Here are some simple tips residents can use to limit indoor and outdoor 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.

The flow in the Potomac River is low but fortunately, due to sound planning by area water utilities and local governments, most of the area is well prepared to withstand drought. Three water supply reservoirs were constructed in the early 1980s to provide water during droughts. These reservoirs are full and, if needed, water can be released to supplement the flow in the river. Water monitoring experts continue to closely gauge flows in the Potomac River and watch weather forecasts to determine if and when releases are necessary.

“The Washington Aqueduct will continue to work alongside our regional water utility partners as we monitor drought conditions,” said Washington Aqueduct General Manager Rudy Chow. “We urge the public to use water wisely by implementing simple measures that can aid in conservation efforts. True resiliency to drought requires awareness and action from all of us, to ensure an adequate water supply for our region.”

“Fortunately, despite the current conditions, the region still has an adequate water supply to meet demands,” said Fairfax Water General Manager Jamie Bain Hedges.

“We will continue to work closely with our regional partners to monitor drought conditions in the area and our shared water supplies,” said WSSC Water General Manager and CEO Kishia L. Powell. "Wise water use is a great habit to practice all year long to decrease water demand, protect our precious resources and help customers save on their water bills."

Residents and businesses are being asked to use water wisely as part of their daily routines. Increasing conservation efforts now will help optimize use of water resources, especially if dry conditions persist into the fall and winter. A detailed list of tips for wise water use can be found at mwcog.org/wisewater. 

While the region is currently at a low to moderate risk for wildfires, fire safety and protection is a concern due to dry conditions. Committee members encourage residents to use extra caution when smoking outside, using outdoor grills or engaging in other activities that involve flammable materials.

Background Information

Over the past two months, the region has experienced record-breaking high temperatures along with some periods of historically low streamflow and groundwater levels. NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center has declared that 95 percent of the Potomac River Basin is experiencing abnormal to extreme drought and precipitation levels have dropped almost four inches below normal in the past 60 days. 

MORE: Current drought conditions in the region and other resources