The Lower Hunter has recorded its highest April water usage in two decades, prompting Hunter Water to encourage residents to cut back on consumption.
Water storages across the region have dropped to about 62%, marking their lowest point in more than five years after a warmer and drier-than-average month.
Hunter Water executive manager strategy and engagement Emma Berry said recent rainfall had done little to improve conditions throughout its catchments.
“While any rain is welcome, recent falls have been isolated and mainly along the coastal fringe, which hasn’t had a significant or lasting impact on our dam levels,” she explained.
“Our catchments remain very dry, which means not all rainfall turns into runoff that refills our storages.”
The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) is forecasting continued warmer and drier conditions, increasing the likelihood of further pressure on water storages in coming months.
Hunter Water said households across the region used more than 3.7 billion litres of water in April, averaging 189 litres per person each day.
That is significantly higher than the usual average of 163 litres per person daily.
Ms Berry said the latest figures showed why residents should begin conserving water before restrictions became necessary.
“We can’t control the weather, but we can control how much water we use,” she added.
“Every day is a good day to save water… and right now it’s more important than ever.”
Hunter Water is encouraging residents to make small changes around the home.
It includes reducing shower times, avoiding watering gardens during the hottest parts of the day, and only running dishwashers and washing machines with full loads.
More advice to save water comprise of fixing leaks quickly, using a bucket instead of a hose to wash cars and installing water-efficient appliances and fittings.
“Now more than ever, we need everyone to make smart water choices around their homes and businesses,” Ms Berry said.
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