Water Supply Update: Water Advisory in Place

9 years ago
|In Uncategorized
|By Leif Jensen

July 27, 2015 – Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is activating the “advisory stage” of their Water Shortage Contingency Plan.   This is in response to historic low river levels, combined with record hot and dry weather that has significantly increased water demand.

SPU supplies water to Northshore Utility District, along with 25 other cities and water districts in King County.

What does the “advisory stage” mean?
This initial “Advisory” phase lets customers know the potential for a water supply shortage exists.  During the advisory stage, customers are asked to be especially thoughtful in managing their water use and avoiding waste.

 

What’s the outlook for our water supply long-term?
Our water supply outlook is still “fair.”  SPU continues to project it will be “adequate until fall rains typically return.”  With Monday’s activation of the Water Shortage Contingency Plan, SPU is taking the needed steps to maximize the water supply for people and fish in the event this unusual weather continues.

What can you do?
Northshore is asking our customers to continue our good habits of using water efficiently and avoiding water waste.

 

 

We will continue to update you should conditions change.  A weekly report on Seattle’s water supply is available on the SPU website – see the most recent report HERE.

 

 

WATER-SAVING ADVICE:

  • Water early or late to reduce evaporation
  • Water deeply but infrequently – plants get more from one or two deep waterings, rather than several shallow ones
  • Fix leaks around the house – toilets, faucets, hose bibs and sprinkler spray heads.  Toilet leaks can be the worst water-waste culprits, because they can be silent and intermittent.  See how to test your toilets for leaks here.
  • Wash vehicles wisely at a location that recycles water
  • Use a broom, not a hose to clean sidewalks, driveways and patios
  • Wash full loads of laundry and dishes to save water

FOR MORE IDEAS: