Albuquerque: Extreme Heat Leads to Surge in Water Usage

Albuquerque: Extreme Heat Leads to Surge in Water UsageAlbuquerque: Extreme Heat Leads to Surge in Water Usage As Albuquerque endures a prolonged stretch of scorching temperatures, the city’s water consumption has spiked dramatically. In response to the extreme heat, residents have resorted to various measures to cool down, resulting in an unprecedented demand for water. According to the Albuquerque Water Utility Authority (AWA), water usage has increased by nearly 20% compared to the same period last year. The surge is primarily attributed to increased outdoor watering, as residents attempt to keep their lawns and gardens alive. Pools and evaporative coolers have also contributed to the elevated water usage. “We’re seeing unprecedented levels of water demand due to the extreme heat,” said AWA spokesperson Shelby Ortiz. “Residents are understandably concerned about their lawns and landscaping, but we encourage them to conserve water where possible.” The utility has implemented several strategies to manage the surge in demand, including: * Enforcement of watering restrictions: Outdoor watering is now limited to certain hours and days of the week. * Increased leak detection and repair: Crews are actively inspecting pipelines and fixtures to identify and repair leaks. * Public awareness campaigns: The AWA is urging residents to conserve water through public outreach efforts. Residents are being urged to take steps to reduce their water usage, including: * Water lawns less frequently: Consider watering every other day or even once a week. * Use drought-tolerant plants: Replace water-intensive plants with species that require less irrigation. * Shorten shower times: Take shorter showers or consider installing low-flow shower heads. * Fix leaks: Check faucets, toilets, and irrigation systems regularly for leaks and repair them promptly. The AWA hopes that by implementing these measures, the city can avoid a water shortage during the current heatwave. Residents are also encouraged to be mindful of their water consumption and make every effort to conserve this precious resource.