Water, a precious and essential resource for drinking, cooking, showering, growing food, wildlife and vegetation, has been in limited supply for the Lehigh Valley and surrounding communities over the last several weeks.

The Blue Mountain fire in Lehigh Township consumed more than 600 acres of woodland due to severely dry conditions.

The area did receive minimal rain Sunday night into Monday morning, Nov. 10-11.

On Monday morning, WPVI 6ABC Philadelphia Action News meteorologist Karen Rogers reported 0.2 of an inch of rain fell in the Lehigh Valley.

According to a Nov. 1 Department of Environmental Protection news release titled “Pennsylvania Declares Drought Conditions in 35 Counties,” the Pennsylvania Drought Task Force announced 33 counties are under a drought watch and two counties are under a drought warning due to the dry conditions.

“While not required, residents and businesses are encouraged to voluntarily conserve water by reducing nonessential water use,” the news release stated.

The rain that fell Sunday night into Monday morning is still not enough.

According to drought.gov, October in the Lehigh Valley was the driest on record in the last 130 years at 3.37 inches of rain below normal.

However, there are numerous ways residents throughout the Valley can help.

The following are just some ways to conserve water:

• Use dishwasher and washing machines only when fully loaded.

• If washing dishes by hand, do not let the water run. Fill the sink with enough water to wash all dishes first, then run the water to rinse them.

• Turn off the water while brushing teeth or shaving.

• Take a shower, which uses less water than a bath.

• Shorten time in the shower.

• Flush the toilet only when necessary.

• Check and repair any leaking faucets or pipes in the home.

• Water outdoor landscaping only when needed or in the early morning or evening hours when temperatures are cooler.

• Refrain from washing vehicles using a garden hose at home; instead, wash it at a car wash, which is more efficient.

• Learn how to make a rain barrel to collect water when it rains.

By making water conservation a way of life, we save water, minimize water waste and minimize the harmful effects of drought.

Even the simplest changes in one’s daily routine can have a significant impact.

Susan Bryant

editorial assistant

Parkland Press

Northwestern Press