Some residents in the Town of Essex are being told to stop outdoor water use until further notice.
On Wednesday, councillors declared a temporary ban on outdoor water use for residential customers of the Harrow and Colchester South Water Treatment Plant. The ban takes effect immediately.
"Due to extreme weather events on the shores of Lake Erie, the Harrow and Colchester South Water Treatment Plant is currently experiencing a significant reduction in water level," a release from the Town of Essex read. "The reduced levels, along with increased water consumption during the warmer weather, has placed a burden on the system, limiting the supply of water reserved for residents of Harrow and Colchester South."
As a result of the water ban, affected residents must immediately limit water use in the following ways:
• Completely suspend the residential use of outside water including lawn and garden watering, car washing, etc. at all times.
• Limit non-essential water use as much as possible to reduce the demand on the system.
While the ban is in place, the Harrow and Colchester Splash Pads will be closed to help preserve water.
"It is essential that residents of Harrow and Colchester South suspend the use of outside water as a preventative measure to ensure that we do not experience a severe shortage.” said Mayor Richard Meloche. "The Town of Essex would like to thank residents for their cooperation at this time."
Individuals unsure whether or not they are a client of the Harrow and Colchester South Water Treatment Plant are asked to reference their current water bill or view the water distribution map.
Town officials say they are actively working with Union Water Supply to obtain additional supply in the case of an emergency shortage.
A map of the areas impacted by a temporary ban on outdoor water use for Harrow and Colchester South Water Treatment Plant. August 3, 2022. (Image provided by the Town of Essex.)
