Houston mandates water conservation as the drought persists

As the region endures drought conditions, Houston, Texas, initiated the second stage of its obligatory water conservation measures on Sunday.

According to a news release from Houston Public Works, the city's drought contingency plan is put into effect when there is a significant reduction in annual rainfall and when higher-than-average temperatures put persistent stress on the water system.

According to Houston Public Works, during stage two, single-family residences with even-numbered street addresses are permitted to use outdoor water on Sundays and Thursdays from 7 p.m. CT to 5 a.m. CT.

For outdoor water use between the same hours, single-family residential customers with odd-numbered street addresses are only permitted on Saturdays and Wednesdays. According to officials, Tuesdays and Fridays are the only days for other clients.

Following a written warning following the first infraction, customers who violate the city's drought contingency plan may be penalized up to $2,000 for each transgression, according to Houston Public Works.

This summer, record-breaking heat has been reported in numerous American cities, including Houston.

According to Houston Public Works, Houston is encouraging households to check for and fix water leaks, check sprinkler heads to make sure that water isn't spraying into the road or storm drains, take shorter showers, and only run dishwashers and washing machines when they are fully stocked.

In June 2022, Houston began the first phase of the backup plan.