Drought Warning Awareness (DEQ)

The Town of Tappahannock is informing residents and businesses that, according to the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), our region is currently in a Drought Warning Stage. This designation indicates that significant drought conditions are developing and that conservation efforts are needed to help protect current and future water supplies.

At this time, no mandatory water use restrictions are in place. However, the Town strongly encourages voluntary conservation measures to help protect our water resources.

What This Means

A Drought Warning indicates that drought conditions are worsening and that additional conservation efforts are recommended. DEQ advises communities and water users to minimize nonessential water use, increase awareness of conservation practices, monitor water system conditions closely, and prepare for the possibility of additional measures if dry conditions persist.

Voluntary Conservation Actions

Residents and businesses are encouraged to:

• Minimize all nonessential water use
• Take shorter showers and avoid unnecessary household water use
• Run dishwashers and washing machines only with full loads
• Reduce outdoor watering of lawns, gardens, and landscaping
• Water early in the morning or later in the evening to reduce evaporation
• Avoid washing driveways, sidewalks, and other paved surfaces unless necessary
• Use buckets instead of hoses when washing vehicles, and ensure hoses are not left running
• Check for and promptly repair household leaks (toilets, faucets, irrigation systems)
• Limit draining and refilling of swimming pools; top off only when needed

Local Water System Stewardship

In alignment with DEQ recommendations, the Town will continue to:

• Monitor public water system conditions
• Encourage proactive leak detection and repair efforts
• Share water conservation information with the public as conditions evolve
• Review and update drought response planning as needed

Drought Information & Resources

The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality provides additional information on drought conditions, monitoring, and statewide updates here: https://www.deq.virginia.gov/water/water-quantity/drought

Community Cooperation Appreciated

We appreciate the cooperation of our residents and business community in helping to conserve water. Small, voluntary actions today can help protect our shared water supply in the weeks and months ahead.