Droughts in the Southeast Leave Residents Dry

Atlanta- Unless you operate a car washing business or a plant nursery you are not exempt from new rules that get more confusing every day.

Due to drought conditions across Georgia, the Director of the Environmental Protection Division (EPD) has declared a level two drought response for the entire state. The declaration requires that Georgians immediately follow a more stringent outdoor water use schedule.

The level two drought response schedule is as follows:

Odd-numbered addresses may water only on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, 12 midnight to 10 a.m.

Even-numbered and unnumbered addresses may water only on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays, 12 midnight to 10 a.m.

Since rain fall deficits are near 12 inches; most counties have implemented tough water restrictions to prevent system pressure dropping below the minimum levels.

Fulton County, for instace, has one of the toughest water bans in the state only allowing its residents to water lawns on one weekend day per week between midnight and 10am.

Large companies must adhere to the guidelines as well. It is illegal to water streets, sidewalks, gutters and driveways. Fines for violating the water ban can range from $100 to $1000 dollars. Local news agencies have reported numbers the public can call to turn in violators.

Climate Changes Means No Rainfall

Brush fires in South Georgia have burned nearly 500,000 acres near the Florida border. The fires were considered the worst in the State's history. Fires forced families from their homes. The smoke loomed and could be smelled as far north as Jasper County.

There does appear to be some relief in sight. Recent rains have helped wet the dry vegetation which can prevent brush fires, however with the amount of rain needed to have a normal year on record, there is a long way to go.

No Rain Means No Fire Works

This years fireworks celebrations in many of Georgia's northern counties have either been cancelled or are on a TBA status.

Stone Mountain Park which holds a spectacular show every year including a laser display, says it's show is still on, however they test the conditions daily to be sure the show is not dangerous.

The city of Cartersville on the reverse says it is banning all fire works until the National Weather Service lifts the extreme drought warning in the area.

Sources:
http://freestudents.blogspot.com/2007/06/is-us-currently-suffering-from-global.html

WSB TV Atlanta, "Watering Restrictions in Effect"
http://www.wsbtv.com/news/9306461/detail.html