Drought Watch
A drought watch is intended to alert government agencies, public water suppliers,
water users and the public regarding the onset of conditions indicating the
potential for future drought-related problems. The focus during this stage is
on increased monitoring, awareness and preparation for response if conditions
become worse. A request for voluntary water conservation is made. The objective
of voluntary water conservation measures during a drought watch is to reduce
water uses by 5% in the affected areas. Because of varying conditions, individual
water suppliers or municipalities may be asking for more stringent conservation
actions.