PORT ANGELES — The city of Port Angeles has declared a Stage 2 water shortage, asking its customers to voluntarily reduce their water consumption because of low flows in the Elwha River.
The Stage 2 alert was issued Monday, when Elwha River flows had dipped to 375 cubic feet per second, according to U.S. Geological Survey data.
“This means that immediate voluntary reductions in water consumption are encouraged,” city officials said in the announcement.
City officials recommend the following water conservation measures:
• Install low-flow shower heads and faucets, which are free upon request from Port Angeles City Hall, 321 E. Fifth St.
• Reduce frequency and volume of lawn watering, and limit it to early mornings or evenings.
• Install water-efficient toilets, rain barrels, watering timers and soil moisture meters.
• Reduce the frequency of vehicle washing.
• Operate automatic dishwashers and washing machines only when full.
The Port Angeles municipal water supply comes from a well near the Elwha River just west of the city.
The city also has a surface water right at the Elwha River that provides industrial water and a backup supply of potable water.
The average flow for the Elwha River on Monday was 588 cubic feet per second (CFS).
A Stage 3 alert — and outdoor water restrictions — may be declared if the Elwha River drops below 300 CFS for more than five days, city officials said.
A Stage 4 water alert with mandatory outdoor restrictions and indoor conservation may be declared if the Elwha falls below 200 CFS for more than five days.
Meanwhile, the Clallam County Public Utility District imposed Stage 3 outdoor water restrictions for the Island View Water District on Aug. 21.
Clallam Bay/Sekiu customers were asked to begin voluntary water conservation under Stage 2 on Aug. 21.
________
Reporter Rob Ollikainen can be reached at rollikainen@peninsuladailynews.com.
