Lehigh County Authority issues drought watch, urges 5% water use cut

ALLENTOWN, Pa. — Lehigh County Authority has issued a drought watch and is asking all customers to voluntarily cut their water use by at least 5% amid persistent dry weather and below-normal rainfall across the region.

The authority said its system remains safe and reliable, but continued rain deficits have slowed the natural recharge of groundwater and lowered stream flows in several local watersheds. The drought watch, announced Friday, is a precaution intended to curb demand and protect long-term supply heading into winter.

“We are not facing an immediate water shortage, but current conditions call for early, thoughtful action,” Liesel Gross, LCA’s chief executive officer, said. “A small reduction of just 5% across our system can make a meaningful difference in preserving supply, maintaining system pressure, and ensuring reliable service to all customers.”

Officials said homeowners can take simple steps to reduce water use, including limiting lawn and outdoor watering, repairing leaking faucets and toilets, shutting off outside spigots for the season, running dishwashers and washing machines only with full loads and taking shorter showers. LCA also recommends using commercial car washes that recycle water instead of washing vehicles at home.

Outdoor use remains a major driver of overall demand in many communities, even late in the season, the authority said, and small habit changes can add up to significant savings systemwide.

LCA will continue to track rainfall, groundwater levels and stream flows in coordination with state and regional agencies. The drought watch does not include mandatory restrictions, but the authority said further conservation measures may be implemented if conditions worsen.

Customers can find conservation tips and updates on LCA’s website or social media.