PALATKA, Fla. – The St. Johns River Water Management District has issued an amended order declaring a Phase I moderate water shortage that includes Putnam County, the agency said.
The declaration follows below‑average rainfall, declining groundwater levels and ongoing extreme drought conditions across the region.
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Under Phase I, residents and businesses are asked to voluntarily reduce water use, and wasteful or unnecessary water use is prohibited. Essential services such as firefighting, medical needs and public health operations are not restricted.
The City of Palatka urged residents to limit lawn irrigation, repair leaks, run full loads in dishwashers and washing machines, and avoid unnecessary outdoor water use.
The district said it will continue to monitor drought conditions and may implement additional measures if conditions worsen.