Mandatory Water Restrictions Imposed in 6 CNY Towns Amid Shortage Fears
Mandatory water restrictions have been implemented in six towns in Central New York due to a significant water shortage. The Onondaga County Water Authority (OCWA) issued these directives following a rupture in a large water line located in Cicero. Mayors of affected areas have expressed concerns that residents must conserve water to prevent further issues.
Details of the Water Restrictions
OCWA’s restrictions impact residents in the following towns:
- Manlius
- DeWitt
- Pompey
- Sullivan
- Lenox
- Lincoln
These measures specifically affect approximately 27,000 customers, urging them to reduce water usage significantly. OCWA has halted all car wash services and advised businesses to limit water usage and encourage remote work arrangements.
Impact on Water Supply
The water main, a 42-inch pipe transporting water from Lake Ontario, suffered a break near Northern Boulevard and East Taft Road. This damage has resulted in dwindling water levels, with reservoirs at only 25% capacity. Jeff Brown, the executive director of OCWA, estimates that repairs may take up to two weeks.
Conservation Efforts
Residents are asked to follow specific conservation guidelines, including:
- Taking five-minute showers and limiting baths.
- Reducing toilet flushes to save approximately 5 to 7 gallons per flush.
- Using water-efficient methods while doing laundry and dishes.
- Eliminating unnecessary water usage for ornamental purposes.
- Reusing water whenever possible.
Commercial entities are also required to adopt water-saving practices, including minimizing non-essential operations involving water.
Current Water Status
OCWA is striving to maintain around 2 million gallons of water flowing each day into the reservoirs. They are drawing water from different areas within the system and using temporary pumps from Otisco Lake to manage the situation effectively.
With declining water levels and increased demand, local officials are urging residents to take these restrictions seriously to avert a potential crisis. Minoa Village Mayor William Brazill emphasized the urgency, stating, “It’s very serious. We really do need to conserve.” Failure to comply could lead to further declines in water pressure and supply in these affected towns.
