Lancaster City is asking residents to conserve water as region experiences drought conditions

The City of Lancaster Water Bureau is asking customers to conserve water as counties across south-central Pennsylvania experience drought conditions.

In a notice sent to more than 120,000 customers Monday, the city water bureau asks customers to voluntarily restrict water usage to essential needs when possible.

The water bureau serves customers in Lancaster city, as well as all of Lancaster Township, Manheim Township, Millersville Borough, West Lampeter Township and Pequea Township, plus portions of Manor, West Hempfield, East Hempfield and East Lampeter townships.

The water bureau reported that the Conestoga River, where the bureau sources a portion of its water, is at low levels due to a lack of precipitation.

The bureau cites watering lawns and gardens, washing cars and washing driveways or sidewalks as examples of nonessential water usage. Additionally, the bureau is encouraging customers to repair leaks in faucets and appliances and adjust water-using appliances to use the least amount of water possible.

On Friday, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection declared a drought watch for Lancaster County.

During a drought watch declaration, residents are encouraged, but not required, to reduce their water consumption by 5% to 10%.

According to the Millersville Weather Information Center, just 0.04 inches of rain fell last month, making it the second driest October since record-keeping began.