It's been rain-free in metro Atlanta since the state issued new watering restrictions in 52 counties Thursday.
The restrictions, which affect most of metro Atlanta and North Georgia, limit outdoor watering to two days a week and ban power-washing homes and watering at outdoor fountains and car washes.
Atlanta recorded its 33rd consecutive day without measurable rainfall Friday, and about 75 percent of Georgia was in one of the two most severe categories of drought, “exceptional” or “extreme,” Channel 2 Action News reported.
“It’s terrible drought conditions,” Channel 2 meteorologist Brad Nitz said.
Water levels at Lake Lanier, Atlanta’s source of drinking water, stayed about the same over the past week at 1,061 feet. The full pool level is 1,071 feet.
Rainfall last seven days: 0
Rainfall this month: 0
Rainfall deficit for the year: 11.18
Rainfall deficit since Sept. 1: 6.47
The state’s drought alerts:
Level 1: Requires public water systems to educate customers about conditions and encourages conservation.
Level 2: Limits outdoor watering to two days a week on an odd-even schedule. Even-numbered addresses may water Wednesdays and Saturdays (4 p.m. to 10 a.m.); odd-numbered addresses may water Thursdays and Sundays (4 p.m. to 10 a.m.). No water for outdoor fountains, car washes or power washing of homes.
Level 3: Prohibits all outdoor irrigation of landscapes. Food gardens may be watered between 4 p.m. and 10 a.m. (Soaker hoses and drip irrigation may be used any time.) Hand watering allowed during designated hours. Golf course irrigation limited.
Source: Environmental Protection Division
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