Despite recent rainfall, a lack of precipitation has resulted in Virginia recording its driest period since 1941. Precipitation totals are about 8 inches below average across much of the state. The most recent Department of Environmental Quality Daily Drought Map shows 100% of the Commonwealth’s land area experiencing drought conditions.
As a result, Gov. Abigail Spanberger is encouraging residents to take voluntary steps to conserve water use. According to Spanberger, these conservation methods may help avoid the need for future mandatory water restrictions if drought conditions worsen.
“All Virginians can play a role in protecting our water supply during this historic dry period,” Spanberger said in a release. “As communities across the Commonwealth — particularly in Southside and Central Virginia — continue to be impacted by these conditions, it is important that we take commonsense steps to meet this challenge.”
The governor offered these steps residents can take to conserve water during the drought:
- Reduce lawn and garden watering schedules to alternating days, only watering between dusk and dawn
- Turn off ornamental fountains
- Limit washing of vehicles and paved surfaces unless addressing public health and safety
- Limit filling of swimming pools
If dry conditions continue, Spanberger may declare a drought emergency by executive order. Mandatory water use restrictions for certain users and industries would then be implemented.
The state has experienced severe droughts in the past. The most recent drought emergency was declared in the summer of 2002 by Gov. Mark Warner.
Feature image, DG PhotoStock/stock.adobe.com
