Previous Updates
April 8, 2009
Drought conditions in the Catawba-Wateree River basin have improved to Low Inflow Protocol Stage 1, as a result of recent rainfall and ongoing conservation. With the change to Stage 1, the Catawba-Wateree Drought Management Advisory Group has recommended two days per week voluntary watering restrictions for the region. This stage of the Low Inflow Protocol does not require mandatory water restrictions.
Duke Energy, consistent with Stage 1, encourages voluntary conservation for outdoor irrigation two days each week with lake pumps. In addition, recreation flows will begin in accordance with the Low Inflow Protocol.
Spring precipitation is forecast to be average to below average, so we will continue to monitor conditions for the basin.
Prudently, Duke Energy plans to operate lake levels to summer target levels (with the exception of Lake James due to construction work underway at the Catawba Dam) during this time. Note that lake levels will vary with weather conditions.
Please continue to conserve water and make it a daily habit regardless of drought condition.
March 4, 2009
The Catawba-Wateree River basin remains in Low Inflow Protocol Stage 2, and mandatory watering restrictions remain in place for the region.
The Drought Management Advisory Group (DMAG) recommendation remains the same, to allow outdoor watering two days a week. Duke Energy, consistent with this recommendation, will continue to allow outdoor irrigation with lake pumps on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
A drier than normal spring is still forecast, so we will continue to monitor conditions for the basin. Prudently, Duke Energy plans to operate lake levels on the high side of target levels to conserve water during this time. Note that lake levels will vary with weather conditions.
Please continue to conserve water and make it a daily habit regardless of drought condition.
Feb. 2, 2009
Since January 9, 2009, the Catawba-Wateree River basin has been in Low Inflow Protocol Stage 2, and the Drought Management Advisory Group (DMAG) recommendation remains the same, allowing outdoor watering two days a week. Duke Energy, consistent with this recommendation, will continue to allow outdoor irrigation with lake pumps on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
The forecast for next few months is drier than normal, but we will continue to monitor conditions for the basin.Clearly drought conditions have improved some over the last few weeks and hopefully, with more rainfall, will continue to improve. The DMAG tracks several indicators - rainfall, lake levels, groundwater and streamflows. While all these indicators have not yet returned to "normal conditions," we have seen great improvement since we started getting rain last fall.
Please continue to conserve water and make it a daily habit regardless of drought condition.December 12, 2008
We know that lakefront property owners traditionally take advantage of seasonally lower lake levels during winter to perform permitted new construction and maintenance activities on piers, seawalls, etc. The purpose of this note is to share information about Duke Energy’s plans for managing lake levels during the 2008-09 winter months.While drought impacts are less than they were at this point last year, and despite the wonderful rainfall we're currently receiving, the Catawba-Wateree River basin continues in Stage 3 drought conditions. Rainfall amounts during 2008 coupled with conservation by area citizens and businesses, including Duke Energy’s decision to operate its hydroelectric plants less, has resulted in lake levels in the Catawba-Wateree River basin that are at or slightly above target levels for this time of the year. In light of the current drought conditions and a forecast for below average rainfall over the coming three months, Duke Energy feels it is necessary to maintain our four largest reservoirs within the Catawba-Wateree River basin at a slightly higher level this winter than we would if the drought conditions were not present.
From December through January, we intend to slowly transition the Catawba-Wateree lakes down to the following seasonal levels:- Lake James: +/- 95.0 ft.
- Lake Norman: +/- 95.5 ft.
- Lake Wylie: +/- 96.0 to 97.0 ft.
- Lake Wateree: +/- 95.0 ft.
- Lakes Rhodhiss, Hickory, Lookout Shoals, Mountain Island, Fishing Creek, Great Falls and Cedar Creek will be operated at or near their normal winter target elevations. Duke Energy lake elevation levels can be found by here.
Please remember that weather conditions can change. Duke Energy will continue to monitor those conditions and adjust its plans for lake levels, as appropriate.
November 24, 2008
The Catawba-Wateree River basin continues in a severe drought, and we remain in Low Inflow Protocol Stage 3 drought conditions. Thus far, we are experiencing an approximate eight inch rainfall deficit for the year, and below average precipitation is projected for the winter.
However, cooler than normal temperatures and sporadic rainfall are helping drought indicators remain stable and reducing outdoor watering demand. In addition, Duke Energy's ongoing hydro operations releases are maintaining lakes at seasonal targets.
Consistent with the Drought Management Advisory Group's recommendation, Duke Energy will continue to allow lake pump use in the Catawba-Wateree basin two days each week until further notice.
Please follow the water restrictions in your area as it relates to other types of outdoor watering. Keep in mind that due to the severe drought conditions, continued conservation is encouraged.
Nov. 4, 2008
The Catawba- Wateree River basin continues in a severe drought, except for a small extreme drought area, as it suffers from an approximate 7.7 inch rainfall deficit for the year. Forecasts show no relief from tropical activity, and the period of November through January is projected to bring below average precipitation.
Duke Energy continues to allow lake pump use in the Catawba-Wateree basin two days each week for outdoor watering through November 30, 2008. Please follow the water restrictions in your area as it relates to other types of outdoor watering. Please keep in mind that due to the severe drought conditions, continued conservation is encouraged.
Sept. 24, 2008
Consistent with the Catawba-Wateree Drought Management Advisory Group recommendations, Duke Energy will allow lake pump use in the Catawba-Wateree basin two days each week for outdoor watering. This policy will begin on Tuesday, September 30, 2008, and will end on November 30 , 2008. Watering will be allowed on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Duke Energy’s hydroelectric operations will continue with minimal flow releases, as has been the practice for more than a year. Summer rainfall was below average until late August when remnants of Tropical Storm Fay brought beneficial rainfall to parts of the basin. This above average rainfall filled the lakes and is allowing for the increased watering, which is just in time for fall planting season. However, this area does continue in Stage 3 drought conditions, and continued conservation is encouraged.Sept. 15, 2008
The Catawba-Wateree basin continues in a persistent severe to extreme drought. Rainfall amounts in August were above long-term average levels due to the effects of Tropical Storm Fay. However, as of September 10, there is still a six inch deficit, according to Duke Energy gauges. Streamflows are well below average and groundwater levels continue to decline. Lake levels benefited from recent rainfall. Duke continues to manage lake levels both in recognition of this persistent drought and the risk from tropical storms.
The forecast for the rest of September suggests average to above average precipitation. October precipitation is thought to be average to somewhat below average. With September 15 representing the peak statistically for storms in the tropics, we are expecting that tropical storms will remain active as we get further into the hurricane season.
We continue to encourage conservation efforts in the region to support lake levels.
Mandatory water restrictions remain in place, and only one day a week lawn irrigation is allowed. Duke Energy, consistent with the Drought Management Advisory Group recommendation, continues to support the use of lake pumps for lawn irrigation on Saturdays only.
Please continue to follow local mandatory water restrictions for your community. Individual and business efforts, along with Duke Energy's restricted hydro operations, are making a difference.
For additional information, contact Duke Energy's lake services at 1-800-443-5193.
Aug. 13, 2008
The Catawba-Wateree basin continues in a persistent exceptional/extreme drought. Rainfall amounts in July were near long-term average levels, however, for the year there is still more than an eight inch deficit, according to Duke Energy gauges. Stream flows are still at or near record low levels and ground water levels continue to decline. The storage index (the amount of water stored in the 11 lakes up and down the river) declined by about seven percent over the past 30 days.
The forecast for the rest of August and September remains optimistic with near average rainfall predicted. The tropics are expected to be active as we get further into the hurricane season. Conservation efforts in the region continue to support lake levels.
Mandatory water restrictions remain in place and only one day a week lawn irrigation is allowed. Duke Energy, consistent with the Drought ManagementAdvisory Group recommendation, continues to support the use of lake pumps for lawn irrigation on Saturdays only.
Please continue to follow local mandatory water restrictions for your community. Individual and business efforts, along with Duke Energy's restricted hydro operations, are making a difference.
For additional information, contact Duke Energy's lake services at 1-800-443-5193.
Aug. 1, 2008
Despite welcome scattered thunderstorms mostly in the lower Catawba (from Charlotte to Camden), the persistent drought continues in the Catawba-Wateree River basin. Water savings from individual and business conservation, and minimal operation of hydroelectric stations by Duke Energy have helped lake levels remain near target.
Based on this beneficial rainfall and continued successful conservation, the Drought Management Advisory Group recommends continued mandatory water restrictions and that landscape watering continue only one day a week. Duke Energy, consistent with the DMAG recommendation, continues to support the use of lake pumps for lawn irrigation on Saturdays only.
Weather forecasts for August indicate the potential for average to above average rainfall, including the potential for tropical activity. Please continue to follow local mandatory water restrictions for your community.
For additional information, contact Duke Energy's lake services at 1-800-443-5193.
July 11, 2008
The persistent drought continues in the Catawba-Wateree River basin with the U.S. Drought Monitor reporting extreme drought conditions for the majority of the region, and a small area in the upper basin showing exceptional drought. Recent beneficial rainfall in the middle Catawba (from Hickory to Rock Hill) has stabilized lake levels to around target levels. In addition, major water suppliers report more than 20 percent water savings by individuals and businesses when compared to 2000-2006 averages during this same timeframe.
Based on this beneficial rainfall and continued successful conservation, the Drought Management Advisory Group recommends continued mandatory water restrictions and that landscape watering continue only one day a week.
Weather forecasts (including the potential for tropical activity) indicate some improvement but significant rainfall is needed to end this drought. Lake residents who use lake pumps for lawn irrigation can continue to use them on Saturdays. Please continue following local mandatory restrictions in your community.
For additional information, please contact Duke Energy's lake services at 1-800-443-5193.
June 26, 2008
After reviewing current drought conditions, the Drought Management Advisory Group (DMAG) continues to support one day per week watering. In agreement, Duke Energy will continue to allow the use of lake irrigation pumps for lawn irrigation on Saturdays only.
Most of the Catawba-Wateree River basin is under a severe drought, though parts of the upper basin are in an exceptional drought. Through June 25, we are nine inches behind in rainfall, and forecasts continue to suggest that summer will have below average precipitation, unless tropical activity occurs. Though there have been some showers in the region, streamflows continue to decline. In addition, warmer weather begins to cause higher evaporation rates.
With this in mind, everyone is encouraged to continue following mandatory restrictions in their community and to conserve water and energy. For additional information, please contact Duke Energy's lake services at 1-800-443-5193.
June 11, 2008
The extreme drought continues to persist in the Catawba-Wateree River basin. Though there have been some showers in the region, streamflows continue to decline. In addition, warmer weather begins to cause higher evaporation rates. Without any tropical activity, the drought is expected to persist.
We continue to be in a Stage 3 drought condition. We must receive a significant amount of rainfall, spread out over several months, in order to return to normal levels. As of the end of May, we were 5.8 inches behind in rainfall and thus far in June we have received only 0.03 inches system wide. Forecasts suggest that June, and likely July, will have below average precipitation.
Mandatory water restrictions remain in place with only one day of lawn irrigation allowed. The Drought Management Advisory Group will review these restrictions again at their next meeting on June 25. Please continue to conserve water, keep outdoor watering to a minimum and follow your community’s water restrictions.
For additional information, please contact Duke Energy’s lake services at 1-800-443-5193.
May 21, 2008
Water conservation is still key as the persistent extreme drought continues to plague the Catawba-Wateree River basin. Though there had been some slight improvement of the drought, warmer weather will begin to cause higher evaporation rates and forecasters are cautious about how much precipitation is expected through the summer.
We continue to be in a Stage 3 drought condition. We must receive a significant amount of rainfall, spread out over several months, in order to return to normal levels. As of the end of April, we were 3.47 inches behind in rainfall So far, May has only seen 1.02 inches of rain and forecasts suggest June will also be a dry month.
Please continue to conserve water, keep outdoor watering to a minimum and follow your community’s water restrictions.
For additional information, please contact Duke Energy’s lake services at 1-800-443-5193.
April 30, 2008
The Catawba-Wateree River basin is showing improvement in storage levels and streamflows from recent rains. To date, the basin has received 11.34 inches of rainfall, or about 73 percent of the long-term average. For April, we’ve received 2.61 inches of rainfall according to Duke Energy gages, which is about 80 percent of the long-term average.
We continue to be in Stage 3 drought condition. Although more rain is expected for the weekend, we must receive a significant amount of rainfall, spread out over several months, in order to return to normal levels. A chart showing current low inflow conditions is on this page.
Please continue to conserve and follow your community's local water restrictions.
For additional information, please contact Duke Energy’s lake services at 1-800-443-5193.
March 28, 2008
The rainfall dependent Catawba-Wateree River basin continues to suffer from an extreme drought. Due to lower evaporation rates, strong conservation efforts and Duke Energy’s reduced hydroelectric operations, water storage and lake levels have increased.
The latest update for stream flows and the U.S. Drought Monitor show improvement, which means that drought conditions in our area are starting to improve. Here is a link to the current update: C-W Low Inflow Protocol Upate - March 28, 2008.
The weather outlook for spring 2008 is for an equal chance for above, below or average precipitation.
Thanks for continuing to conserve as the situation in the region begins to improve.
Feb. 29, 2008
The exceptional drought across the Catawba-Wateree River basin continues. Since January 1, 2008, we have received 4.52 inches of rainfall. This amounts to only 47 percent of the expected long-term average for January and 71 percent for February. Thus, the rainfall received to date is less than expected for this time of year, and the region continues to suffer from low stream flows and a lack of significant precipitation.
Watering lawns and landscaping is one of the largest non-essential uses of water within the basin. As property owners consider landscaping renovations or establishing new lawns, Duke Energy asks that they consult their local agricultural extension agent or landscape professional for ideas on making your lawn more drought-tolerant. The restrictions on the use of lake pumps for landscape irrigation from lakes along the Catawba-Wateree River basin will remain in effect until consistent rain returns to the area and restores stream flows, lake levels, the U.S. Drought Monitor and groundwater levels to acceptable conditions.
Anyone observing misuse of lake pumps can report those to Duke Energy's lake services line at 1-800-443-5193.
February 14, 2008
The moderate to strong La Niña weather pattern associated with our region’s exceptional drought is expected to continue through the winter and weaken through June. Some models show a possibility of it extending into the fall. Historically, La Niña events have produced above average rainfall in the Ohio and Tennessee River valleys, while the southeast receives below average rainfall. Current storage indicators, stream flow, groundwater and the drought monitor combined indicate we are in a Stage 3 drought condition and mandatory water restrictions will stay in place.
January through March typically is the wettest quarter of the year. As of Feb. 12, we are still nine inches below the long term rainfall average for the quarter. As of Feb. 12, we have received 3.27 inches of rainfall for the quarter, which should be about 50 percent higher according to the long term average system data kept by Duke since 1971. However, even with the lower than average rainfall amounts thus far in 2008, Duke has still managed to build reservoir storage in the Catawba-Wateree River basin by minimizing our hydroelectric operations and by great conservation efforts of the public.
We welcome the rainfall we’ve received so far this week, and forecasts call for approximately a half inch of rainfall this weekend, as well. Duke Energy still anticipates that Stage 4 triggers would not be met before August 2008. Stage 4 would place even further restrictions on water use.
In order to return to Stage 2 conditions, stream flow, U.S. Drought Monitor and groundwater indicators must all be at or above their Stage 2 trigger points.
Please continue to use your water wisely while we all manage this period of exceptional drought.
February 6, 2008
Recent rain is improving conditions across the Catawba-Wateree River basin. Lake levels are rising and more boat ramps have been reopened. Although the water supply in the basin is slowly recovering, it remains in Stage 3 drought condition with mandatory water restrictions in place.
Due to the recent rain and continued conservation, Duke Energy anticipates that tougher water restrictions will not be needed before August 2008. Duke previously had estimated Stage 4 drought condition triggers could be met this month. Stage 4 would place even further restrictions on water use, if reached.
In order to return to Stage 2 conditions, stream flow, U.S. Drought Monitor and groundwater indicators must all be at or above their Stage 2 trigger points.
More rainfall and continued conservation will help return our area to normal conditions.
January 25, 2008
Moderate rainfall, combined with minimal hydro operations over the past six weeks in the Lower Catawba basin have raised reservoir levels and stream inflows.
Some reservoirs in the Lower Catawba are above target levels. Our operational strategy will continue to focus on conserving as much water as possible, while mitigating risk of high water from an unexpected rainfall event.
This strategy includes operating to keep some reservoirs above target levels in preparation for the drought to continue through the summer. Duke will continue daily and weekly hydro operations to balance water conservation with risk of high water.
Jan. 15, 2008
Drought conditions continue in the Catawba-Wateree River basin and across most of the Southeast. More than average rainfall fell during Dec. 2007, along with some precipitation in January. Lake levels have increased as a result. This rain is a welcome relief for our area, but much more is needed to return to normal conditions.
We are closely monitoring current conditions and plan to provide an updated estimate in late January for when Stage 4 could be reached or more stringent water restrictions might be needed. The current estimate for Stage 4 is Feb. 2008, but recent rainfall will extend this estimate much further into the future. This is good news for our region, however, we must continue our focus on conservation.
Earlier this week, Duke Energy opened three boat ramps at the following Lake Rhodhiss access areas – Rhodhiss, Johns River and Conley Creek due to increased lake levels. All boat ramps are being monitored, and openings will be communicated as they occur.
Spring is right around the corner, and our region is known for its beautifully landscaped lawns and gardens. As you begin early planning, please ask your local nursery about plants, bushes, shrubs and trees which need less water and are drought resistant. One of the highest uses of water in our area is for irrigation, so now is the time to make a new resolution to reduce your water use for that purpose.
Please continue to limit electricity and water use as much as possible, and follow the mandatory water restrictions in your local community.
Dec. 28, 2007
Welcome rainfall fell during the recent holiday period providing needed relief to parched lakes and soil. So far this month, the average amount of rainfall in the region is just over two inches. Typical long-term average rainfall in December is three and one-half inches.
Year to date, almost 26 inches of rain has fallen in the Catawba-Wateree River basin, which leaves a deficit in rainfall for our area of just over 20 inches.
This weekend’s forecast is for more rain, possibly one to two inches up and down the basin with more predicted in some areas. To end the year with a month of above average rainfall would be terrific.
Please continue conserving water and energy, and follow local water restrictions in your area.
Thanks for all you have conserved in 2007. Let’s hope for a happy, safe, rainy New Year.
Dec. 7, 2007
Due to cooler temperatures, lower evaporation rates and conservation efforts, Stage 4 drought triggers have been delayed. Previous estimates indicated that the triggers would be met between mid-Dec. 2007 and mid-Jan. 2008. Now those triggers are not expected until sometime in February. Stage 4 does not mean the remaining supply of water in the basin is depleted. Rather, tougher water restrictions will be needed at that time. These changes in the basin also extends the worst case, highly unlikely scenario when the most shallow water intakes and equipment on the lakes could begin to be impacted until May 2008.
While these extensions are good news, it’s important to understand the forecast for a La Nina winter in our region. This forecast predicts above normal temperatures and below normal precipitation. The Catawba-Wateree is a rainfall dependent river basin, and we depend on winter and spring rains to replenish the lakes and reservoirs.
Conservation is more important now than when the acute drought began back in April. Please continue following your local water restrictions. In addition, below are some ways to reduce energy and water consumption as you prepare for the holidays:
- Use energy efficient LED Christmas lights.
- Cut down on the number of strings of lights that you use.
- Try to keep your lights on for only two to five hours a day.
- Make sure to turn off your lights when you aren’t at home and when you go to bed.
- Ensure out-of-town guests understand the seriousness of the drought and abide by local water restrictions.
The Drought Management Advisory Group, consisting of Duke Energy and 24 major water suppliers up and down the river, continue with contingency planning in order to protect essential services for the public.
It is important for everyone to continue working together to conserve energy and water during this time of drought.
Nov. 28, 2007
While our region certainly welcomed the recent rainfall, it did not break the drought. Current estimates continue to indicate that Stage 4 drought triggers will be met between mid-December 2007 and mid-January 2008; however, current forecasts show a possibility for rainfall early next week.
Stage 4 does not mean the remaining supply of water in the basin is depleted. Rather, tougher water restrictions will be needed at that time.
The Drought Management Advisory Group, consisting of Duke Energy and 24 major water suppliers up and down the river, met earlier this week to continue with contingency planning in order to protect essential services for the public.
At this point, the worst case, highly unlikely scenario when the most shallow water intakes and equipment on the lakes could begin to be impacted is still estimated at the middle of March 2008.
Duke Energy expects to incorporate November data into the hydrology modeling and provide an update for Stage 4 and worst case scenario estimates next week.
It is important for everyone to continue working together to conserve energy and water during this time of drought.
November 14, 2007
Aggressive conservation efforts are needed now more than ever to protect our water supply. The Catawba-Wateree river basin is dependent on rainfall. With no rain, we must drastically alter our water consumption habits; particularly, in outdoor watering. While it should be understood that we can’t conserve our way out of the drought, conservation is the only way to preserve water for essential uses until we receive significant rainfall.
Current estimates continue to indicate that Stage 4 drought triggers will be met between mid-December 2007 and mid-January 2008; however, current projections show a possibility for rainfall early next week. Stage 4 does not mean the remaining supply of water in the basin is depleted. Rather, tougher water restrictions will be needed at that time.
Duke Energy, along with other parties having an interest in water quantity, continues to follow the low inflow protocol (LIP). The LIP establishes procedures for reductions in water use during periods of low inflow, and it was developed on the basis that all parties with interests in water quantity will share the responsibility to establish priorities and to conserve the limited water supply.
The worst case, highly unlikely scenario when the most shallow water intakes and equipment on the lakes could begin to be impacted is still estimated at the middle of March 2008.
For further information about water restrictions in your area or questions regarding drinking water, please contact your local water provider.
Thank you for your ongoing conservation efforts.
November 9, 2007
With no recent rainfall to replenish the region’s water supply, continued aggressive conservation efforts are needed. Currently, we estimate Stage 4 drought restrictions may be declared between mid-December 2007 and mid-January 2008, unless additional rainfall and greater water conservation efforts provide relief. Stage 4 does not mean the remaining supply of water in the basin is depleted. Rather, tougher water restrictions will be needed at that time.
Duke Energy is working closely with the major public water system operators to conserve water, while all owners of water intakes in the Catawba-Wateree River basin are finalizing contingency planning in order to protect the water supply as much as possible.
The worst case, highly unlikely scenario when the most shallow water intakes and equipment on the lakes could begin to be impacted continues to be estimated at the middle of March 2008.
For further information about water restrictions in your area or questions regarding drinking water, please contact your local water provider.
Protecting the region’s water supply through this exceptional drought is a shared responsibility. Thank you for your continued conservation efforts.
October 31, 2007
Although last week’s rainfall began replenishing the region’s water supply, without substantial additional rainfall in the Catawba-Wateree River basin, Stage 4 drought conditions which call for tougher water restrictions could arrive between mid-December 2007 and mid-January 2008. At this stage, water suppliers would likely add more restrictions on water use. Additional rainfall and greater water conservation could help to further delay the onset of Stage 4.
Predicting the time until the remaining useable storage will be fully depleted is difficult due to such variables as evaporation, conservation and rainfall. However, through the use of water modeling, Duke Energy determined a worse case scenario for estimating when the usable water storage in the basin will be depleted. By assuming a 2 percent storage decline per week, and assuming the same rainfall/drought conditions seen in recent months, the most shallow water intakes and equipment on the lakes could begin to be impacted by the middle of March 2008. Even though the long term forecast through Feb. 2008 is for drier than normal weather, there is only a 10 percent or less probability that the extreme lack of rainfall experienced in the past several months will continue in the coming months, so this scenario is extremely unlikely to occur.
While this worst case scenario would not mean that the Catawba-Wateree reservoirs would be dry, it does mean the most shallow water intakes in the basin could be at risk at that time and contingency plans would need to be implemented to ensure all essential needs are met.
Duke Energy continues to work closely with the major public water system operators and limit hydroelectric station operations in order to conserve water. Continued conservation by all will help buy time until more rainfall comes to our region. In the meantime, all owners of water intakes in the Catawba-Wateree River basin are finalizing contingency planning in order to protect the water supply.
Please continue to conserve.
October 25, 2007
The Catawba-Wateree River basin remains in a Stage 3 drought condition this week. Rainfall in recent days has been helpful but ongoing conservation and more rainfall is needed. The reservoirs, lakes and streams in the Carolinas are very rainfall dependent. It will take a return to more than normal rainfall amounts to recover from this drought.
Based on recent data, Duke Energy estimates the basin would likely meet the triggers for a Stage 4 drought condition by mid-Nov to early Dec. 2007 (in three-six weeks). Stage 4 does not mean we’ll be out of water – it means it will be time to enact further water use restrictions in order to conserve water in the river for essential uses. In this stage, additional water use restrictions are implemented by public water utilities and would likely include restrictions for businesses and commercial users of water. Individual water utilities would communicate these restrictions for their individual communities and work to achieve a 20%-30% or more water savings over normal use.
The regional drought management group is finishing contingency planning in order to support essential public services in the event that lake levels would drop below minimum levels. Declining lake levels during this stage of the drought could impact intakes and other vital equipment. Duke Energy will work with the 24 major public water system operators to aggregate these contingency plans and load them into the calculation we use to determine current conditions in the basin and for planning purposes.
We're fortunate in this region to have 11 dams on the river to help manage the flow of water. Many free flowing rivers, creeks and streams have dried up. Duke Energy manages the flow of water in the basin to ensure essential uses such as drinking water supplies, electricity for customers, and industrial uses are met and aquatic life are considered.
Conservation efforts by individuals help postpone moving to this next level of drought condition. Governors in both states are calling for increased conservation efforts. With Governor’s Easley’s announcement this week, many communities will seek to conserve 50%. Cities and towns up and down the Catawba are already conserving by 20% or more. This coordinated conservation effort combined with small amounts of rainfall will continue to delay moving to the next stage of water restrictions. Thanks for continuing to conserve.
October 17, 2007
The Catawba-Wateree River basin remains in a Stage 3 drought condition this week. Individuals, towns, cities and counties up and down the river are responding to this exceptional drought by saving water for essential uses.
We’re fortunate in this region to have 11 dams on the river to help manage the flow of water. Many free flowing rivers, creeks and streams have dried up. Duke Energy manages the flow of water in the basin to ensure essential uses such as drinking water supplies, electricity for customers, and industrial uses are met and aquatic life are considered.
Water use and electricity use are linked so it’s important to conserve both. Duke Energy, major public water system operators and industry users will continue working together to conserve water.
Lake levels will continue to decline. Those with watercraft in the lakes who haven’t taken appropriate action for storage should consider doing so. Extreme caution should be used if on Catawba-area lakes.
October 9, 2007
On October 4, 2007, Duke Energy declared the Catawba-Wateree River basin in a Stage 3 low inflow condition, which calls for more restrictions on non-essential uses of water. In addition, the U.S. Drought Monitor upgraded the drought in our region to exceptional; the highest drought classification. Water is currently leaving the basin at an average rate of 2-3% per week. Currently, the Catawba-Wateree River basin remains in Stage 3 low inflow condition.
With little or no rainfall in the forecast, it’s more important than ever for individuals to review their own energy and water usage and find ways to conserve even more. Conservation is vital until normal rainfall patterns return to our area. Duke Energy, major public water system operators and industries plan to continue working together to conserve even more water.
Duke Energy manages 11 lakes as one system. We are dedicated to protecting equipment in the lakes and river that serve vital health and safety for people in the region including systems that provide drinking water and electricity. Our operational plan also considers the aquatic health in the basin.
For additional water restrictions in your community, contact your local water provider.
October 4, 2007
Duke Energy declared a Stage 3 low inflow condition for the Catawba-Wateree River Basin. The action is part of a regional drought plan which calls for more restrictive mandatory water conservation measures throughout the basin as the drought becomes exceptional. Duke Energy’s role is to provide basin-wide data. The latest information indicates that approximately 42 percent of usable water storage remains in the Catawba-Wateree basin prompting the Stage 3 declaration.
For additional water restrictions in your community, contact your local water provider.
