The Reading Area Water Authority is asking customers to reduce water use after Berks County was placed under a drought warning by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).
In an alert issued Feb. 19, the authority announced a Voluntary Water Conservation Notice for all customers, requesting a 10–15% reduction in water use. Officials said the measure is intended to help preserve water supplies as dry conditions continue across the region.
Customers are being asked to avoid nonessential water use. The authority said activities such as watering lawns and outdoor areas, watering golf courses, washing vehicles or paved surfaces, filling or topping off swimming pools, and serving water in restaurants unless specifically requested should be suspended during the conservation period.
State officials said drought conditions have worsened in parts of Pennsylvania following a Feb. 18 meeting of the Commonwealth Drought Task Force. Several counties, including Berks, had their status elevated to a drought warning, which reflects declining groundwater levels and ongoing precipitation deficits, particularly in south-central and eastern areas of the state.
In total, 17 counties are currently under a drought warning, while dozens of others are under a drought watch. DEP said the designations are informational and intended to encourage conservation, while mandatory restrictions would only occur under a drought emergency declaration approved by the governor.
Drought declarations are based on multiple indicators, including stream flow, groundwater levels, precipitation, and soil moisture. Officials review how those conditions have deviated from normal levels over periods ranging from three to 12 months.
DEP encourages residents to pay attention to guidance from their local water suppliers, noting that localized conditions can vary and may lead municipalities or utilities to request additional conservation measures.
The Reading Area Water Authority said it will notify customers when the voluntary restrictions are lifted and thanked residents for supporting conservation efforts.
Residents can help reduce demand by fixing leaks, running appliances only with full loads, shortening showers, and turning off water while brushing teeth or washing dishes.
Officials said even small reductions across households and businesses can have a meaningful impact on water supply levels while drought conditions persist.
