RIVERVIEW, Fla. (WWSB) – In the wake of the current drought, the utility that supplies drinking water to most of Tampa Bay says it will make a “major regional water supply announcement” Friday.
Tampa Bay Water says water levels are so low on the Alafia River, the nonprofit utility cannot draw water for its customers.
Tampa Bay Water, a nonprofit, special district of the State of Florida, provides water to governments including Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas counties and the cities of New Port Richey, St. Petersburg and Tampa.
“Due to persistent severe drought conditions, water from rivers is no longer available as a source for our drinking water supply,” the utility said in a news release.
According to its website, Tampa Bay Water takes water is skimmed from the Alafia River, Hillsborough River and the Tampa Bypass Canal.
Surplus water is stored in the 15.5-billion gallon C.W. Bill Young Regional Reservoir to supply the water treatment plant during dry times.
Tampa Bay Water says it will ask the public to help by redoubling conservation efforts.
“Two years ago, during our last significant drought, the community reduced water demand significantly, demonstrating that collective action works,” the release said.
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