Durham Faces Severe Drought, Implements Stage 2 Water Restrictions Amidst Declining Reservoir Levels
The City of Durham is experiencing prolonged drought conditions, leading to significant concerns about its water supply. City officials estimate that the two primary reservoirs, Lake Michie and Little River, are at a combined 33% capacity, leaving approximately 80 days of easily accessible water. This situation has prompted Durham to implement Stage 2 water shortage protocols, a level of restriction not seen since 2007. Under these protocols, activities such as washing personal vehicles at home and residential landscaping are prohibited. While some heavy water users like recreational fields and botanical gardens are exempt, they are required to limit consumption and submit water conservation plans. The city is also actively working with neighboring Orange and Wake Counties to purchase water from their reservoirs, specifically nine million gallons daily from Jordan Lake via Cary and two million gallons from Orange County. Additionally, Durham has tapped into its emergency reserves at Teer Quarry, which hold...
