Due to unusually dry conditions in Fairfax County and the surrounding region that are expected to persist, a drought watch is now in effect, issued by the Drought Coordination Committee of the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG).

The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), in coordination with the Virginia Drought Monitoring Task Force, issued a drought warning advisory earlier this month for many areas of Virginia, including Fairfax County and the rest of Northern Virginia.

Residents and businesses are encouraged to take voluntary measures to conserve water and help reduce demand on the region’s water supply systems.

Water saving tips:

• Monitor watering of lawns, plants and shrubs.

• Sweep sidewalks and driveways instead of using a hose.

• Avoid washing your car or use a commercial car wash that recycles water.

• Repair plumbing leaks – especially toilets and faucets.

• Shorten shower length to under 5 minutes.

• Turn off the water while brushing your teeth.

• Wash full loads of dishes and clothes.

Learn more from the Council of Governments and the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality.

Officials emphasized that while there currently is an adequate supply of water in the Potomac River and back-up reservoirs, implementing voluntary water conservation practices across the region will help complement measures already in place and reduce water demand and environmental needs of the river. A drought watch is the level in the plan before drought warning, when additional water restrictions are requested and could become mandatory should conditions worsen.

“As officials continue to closely monitor drought conditions in the region, it is important for the public to use water wisely”, said Clark Mercer, COG Executive Director, adding that “with a few simple measures, we can all aid in water conservation efforts and help ensure an adequate water supply for our region.”

Three water supply reservoirs were constructed in the early 1980s to provide water during droughts. These reservoirs are full and, if needed, water can be released to supplement the flow in the river. “Fortunately, despite the current conditions, the region still has an adequate water supply to meet demands,” said Fairfax Water General Manager Jamie Bain Hedges.

"Wise water use is a great habit to practice all year long to decrease water demand, protect our precious resources and help customers save on their water bills," said WSSC Water General Manager Kishia L. Powell.

Residents and businesses are being asked to use water wisely as part of their daily routines. Increasing conservation efforts now will help optimize use of water resources, especially if dry conditions persist into the fall and winter. A detailed list of tips for wise water use can be found at mwcog.org/wisewater. 

While the region is currently at a low to moderate risk for wildfires, fire safety and protection is a concern due to dry conditions. Committee members encourage residents to use extra caution when smoking outside, using outdoor grills or engaging in other activities that involve flammable materials.

Background Information

Over the past two months, the region has experienced record-breaking high temperatures along with some periods of historically low streamflow and groundwater levels. NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center has declared that 95 percent of the Potomac River Basin is experiencing abnormal to extreme drought and precipitation levels have dropped almost four inches below normal in the past 60 days.