Duke Energy Extends Estimated Timeframe for Tougher Water Restrictions

With more than six inches of rain across the Catawba-Wateree basin since mid-December 2007 and continued conservation, Duke Energy anticipates that tougher water restrictions would not be needed before August 2008.

Previously, Duke had estimated Stage 4 drought condition triggers could be met in February. This extension is good news for the region and factors in the latest weather forecast of higher than normal temperatures as well as below normal rainfall in spring 2008.

Stage 4 does not mean the remaining supply of water in the basin is fully depleted. Rather, water suppliers would likely place tougher restrictions on water use if Stage 4 was reached.

The Catawba-Wateree River basin remains in Stage 3 drought condition with mandatory water restrictions in place. In addition to the improvements in reservoir storage, in order to return to Stage 2 conditions, stream flow, U.S. Drought Monitor and groundwater indicators must all be at or above their Stage 2 trigger points.

More rainfall and continued conservation will help return our area to normal conditions.