What happened
Laguna Madre Water District (LMWD) notified its customers of severe water shortage conditions on Sept. 15. Why it matters
LMWD stated the U.S. combined storage in Amistad and Falcon Reservoirs is below 25% capacity for 30 days and demands reduction.
What now Irrigation Restrictions - Allowed hours:
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7 p.m. to 12 a.m. and 12 a.m. to 7 a.m.
- Permitted methods:
- Hand-held hoses, buckets, drip irrigation, or automatic sprinkler systems - Prohibition of hose-end sprinklers.
Designated Watering Days - Tuesdays and Fridays for South Padre Island.
Vehicle Washing Restrictions - Prohibition, except on designated watering days and specific hours - Permitted methods: hand-held bucket or hose with a shutoff nozzle - Exemptions for essential vehicle cleansing.
Swimming Pool Restrictions - Prohibition of filling, refilling, or adding to indoor or outdoor pools except on designated watering days and hours
Ornamental Fountain and Pond Restrictions -
Prohibition for aesthetic purposes. Except when necessary for aquatic life or equipped with a recirculation system.
Hydrant Use Restrictions - Limited to firefighting, related activities, and essential public health, safety, and welfare - Exception for construction purposes with special permit.
Restaurant Water Service - Prohibition of serving water to patrons except upon request
Non-Essential Water Use Prohibitions - Wash down of hard-surfaced areas (sidewalks, driveways, etc.)
- Use of water for non-fire protection building or structure washing.
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Water use for dust control.
- Preventing water accumulation in gutters or streets.
- Timely repair of controllable leaks.
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These outlined measures aim to conserve water resources during a severe water shortage and ensure essential needs are met while reducing strain on the reservoirs.
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