NORWICH – With Norwich and the region experiencing low levels of rain over the past several months, Norwich Public Utilities (NPU) is asking that residential and commercial customers consider making reasonable adjustments to their water use until conditions improve.
“In an abundance of caution, we are asking our customers to help us manage through the current conditions and cut back their water use whenever they can,” said Jeff Brining, Assistant General Manager of NPU. “Being more mindful in our daily routines can make a big difference if enough people respond to our request.”
NPU’s two reservoirs are tracking slightly below their 5-year normal cycle and are at approximately 70% of their capacity as of Wednesday this week. When NPU reservoirs reach this level, a Water Supply Watch is required per the NPU Water Supply Plan, which is submitted to the State of Connecticut.
This level indicates that NPU has approximately 230 days of water supply remaining in its two reservoirs. Should the drought conditions persist, the following thresholds would trigger the following:
Water Supply Warning 60% capacity - approximately 200 days of supply
Water Supply Emergency 50% capacity - approximately 180 days of supply
NPU and the State’s Department of Public Health are asking the public to consider the following tips for conserving water:
- Refrain from any unnecessary or wasteful uses of water, such as rinsing sidewalks, driveways or patios
- Run dishwashers or washing machines with full loads only
- Do not leave a faucet running when washing dishes, shaving, brushing teeth and washing hands
- Take shorter showers; reduce your time in the shower by one minute a day until you are in and out of the shower in under five minutes
- Avoid power washing homes and buildings and washing vehicles
- Fix any leaks in and around your home or business immediately
Until conditions improve, NPU is pausing its annual hydrant flushing, which will help save water over the next few weeks.