WASHINGTON, Nov. 22, 2002 -- The Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG) announced Friday that the drought "WATCH," first issued on February 20, 2002, has been lifted for the entire Washington metropolitan region.
The WATCH is the first notification stage of the region's Water Supply and Drought Response Plan (NORMAL, WATCH, WARNING, EMERGENCY)*. The region is now at the "NORMAL" stage of COG's Regional Water Supply and Drought Response Plan for the first time in nine months.
COG made the announcement in recognition of improvements observed over the past several months in precipitation amounts, and stream/river flows, as well as reservoir and ground water levels. In addition, the National Weather Service 90-day outlook indicates a good probability of normal precipitation.
Regional officials emphasized that even with these improvements, the region still has not recovered fully from this multi-year drought, with average precipitation still 12 percent (5.79 inches) below normal since September 2001, based on measurements in the Potomac River basin, as reported by the National Weather Service, Mid Atlantic River Forecast Center. However, current conditions and patterns indicate that continued improvement can be expected.
Water supplies in the Potomac River are more than adequate to meet current and future water needs, with flows well above median levels, the Jennings Randolph Reservoir at 100 percent, and Little Seneca Reservoir at 87 percent full capacity.
Despite improving conditions, COG reminds everyone of the importance of practicing wise water use year-round in and around the home. COG's "wise water use tips" for this time of year emphasize prudent indoor water use practices, including repairing leaking toilets and faucets, installing low flush toilets and low flow showerheads, turning off the water while brushing teeth or shaving, and running only full loads in the dishwasher and washing machine. For more information on how to use water wisely, go to COG's website at http://www.mwcog.org/dep/water/supply/current_conditions.htm or contact your local water utility.
COG is the association of 18 local governments working together for a better metropolitan region.
Source: Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments
