Conserving water is always a good idea, but during a drought it is a necessity.
Pennsylvania uses a three-stage drought-operating plan. It begins with a Drought Watch requesting a voluntary 5% reduction of water use, and then progresses to a Drought Warning requesting a voluntary 10% reduction of water use. The final stage is a Drought Emergency which imposes mandatory restrictions on nonessential water use.
Areas served by Chester Water Authority (CWA) are now under a Drought Watch as of August 24, 2026. This is an improvement from the Drought Warning status declared by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection on February 18, 2026.
Chester Water Authority is now asking its customers to support a voluntary 5% reduction in water use and continue conservation efforts to save water. There are several simple ways to minimize water use and avoid wasting water including:
- repairing drips and leaks on plumbing fixtures
- running the dishwasher or washing machine only when full
- not running water while shaving or brushing teeth
- using a bucket of water when washing the car and using a hose with an automatic shut-off nozzle
- using a hose with an automatic shut-off nozzle when watering plants & shrubs
More water conservation tips and ideas can be found on our website, or by contacting our Customer Service Group at 610-876-8181. Additional information may be obtained from the PA DEP website at www.dep.pa.gov/drought
Please be careful to use water wisely and conserve wherever possible during this Drought Warning. Chester Water Authority thanks you for your consideration and assistance in this effort.
