Georgia EPD declares Drought Response Level 1
A statewide Drought Response Level 1 took effect April 27, 2026. Outdoor watering is limited to 4 p.m. to 10 a.m. Residents are asked to conserve.
On April 27, 2026, the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) declared a statewide Drought Response Level 1 for public water systems that use surface water or groundwater, including Blakely’s.
Outdoor watering is still allowed, but only between 4:00 p.m. and 10:00 a.m. Use outside those hours is restricted. Public water systems may not set outdoor watering rules different from the state’s without a variance from EPD.
Residents can help by:
- watering lawns and gardens in the early morning or late evening,
- skipping irrigation when it is raining,
- fixing leaks and dripping faucets promptly,
- using water-efficient methods when washing vehicles or equipment, and
- reducing non-essential water use where possible.
Keeping an adequate supply for public safety and fire protection depends in part on conservation at home. The City is monitoring conditions and will post updates if the drought worsens or further restrictions become necessary.