DC recommends residents reduce water usage amid drought fears The District of Columbia Water and Sewer Authority has issued new water conservation recommendations due to the city heading into its driest summer in decades, following a drought watch warning. The city’s sole water source, the Potomac River, is a concern, as the current year is the driest on record since 2002. DC Water has also initiated a program to strengthen and diversify the city’s water supply resilience.

• DC Water has introduced new water conservation recommendations as the city anticipates its driest summer in decades.
• A drought watch warning has been issued by the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments’ Drought Coordination Committee.
• 2026 is on track to be the driest year on record for the district since 2002.
• Recommended conservation measures include washing full loads of laundry, turning off faucets while brushing teeth, and taking short showers.
• The city’s water supply relies entirely on the Potomac River, which is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Washington Aqueduct.
• DC Water launched the Purify Water DC initiative in 2025 to enhance water supply resilience.
• The driest year on record for the Washington region was 1930.