Daily water usage in Dallas has averaged 600 million gallons a day throughout August and early September — a 50% increase from the city’s typical daily usage of about 400 million gallons, according to a Sept. 10 city news release.
The increased demand, combined with dry soil conditions, is contributing to “increased breaks and leaks across the drinking water system,” the release said.
Over the past three months, Dallas Water Utilities crews have repaired 310 main line breaks and leaks, 377 service line leaks and 233 hydrants, according to the release. Crews are working extended hours to address repairs, which are handled based on priority level.
Dallas residents can call 3-1-1, the city’ non-emergency line, to report water main leaks or breaks. Reports can also be made through Dallas 311’s website or the app.
The heat may temporarily ease into the 90s early next week, thanks to a weak cold front, but high temperatures are expected to remain in place for the near future.
Dallas County is almost entirely in extreme drought, with several pockets in severe drought, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor’s Sept. 17 update. Similarly, Tarrant, Denton and Collin counties are also primarily experiencing extreme drought.
About 18% of Texas is now experiencing extreme drought, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. Extreme drought conditions mean the affected region is already seeing major crop and pasture losses, as well as widespread water shortages or restrictions.