RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) — Raleigh Water officials say they are increasing enforcement efforts and urging residents to cut back on water use as demand rises and drought conditions persist.<\/p>\n
Average daily water usage has climbed to more than 76 million gallons, an increase of more than 10 million gallons compared with last week, according to officials. The spike comes as Falls Lake, the city’s primary water source, continues to recede during a particularly dry stretch.<\/p>\n
“This particular drought that we’re in now is sort of the worst case scenario,” said Ed Buchan, Raleigh Water assistant director.<\/p>\n
In response, Raleigh Water is expanding enforcement of existing restrictions<\/a> and encouraging residents to reduce consumption wherever possible.<\/p>\n “We’re going to have our enforcement staff out in the morning,” Buchan said.<\/p>\n Since April 20, officials have issued 244 educational letters, 10 official warnings and recorded 355 violations related to water use rules.<\/p>\n Level 1 water restrictions have been in place since April, limiting outdoor irrigation to Tuesdays and Wednesdays based on address. Officials say much of the increased demand is tied to irrigation, especially as hotter temperatures increase evaporation.<\/p>\n “We’re starting to see more demand from our customers and a little more evaporation because it’s been hotter,” Buchan said.<\/p>\n