Lehigh County Authority Declares Drought Watch, Calls on Customers to Voluntarily Reduce Water Use by 5%
November 21, 2025 Allentown, Pa. — Lehigh County Authority (LCA) has declared a drought watch for its service area and is asking all water customers to voluntarily reduce their water use by at least 5% in response to persistent dry conditions and below-average rainfall across the region.
While LCA’s water system remains safe and reliable, ongoing rain deficits have slowed the natural recharge of groundwater aquifers and reduced stream flow in several local watersheds. A drought watch is a proactive, precautionary measure designed to slow demand and protect long-term water availability if dry conditions continue into the winter and early spring.
“We are not facing an immediate water shortage, but current conditions call for early, thoughtful action,” said Liesel Gross, LCA’s Chief Executive Officer. “A small reduction of just 5% across our system can make a meaningful difference in preserving supply, maintaining system pressure, and ensuring reliable service all customers.”
LCA customers can take simple, effective steps right away to reduce water use, including:
- Limiting lawn watering and irrigation as plants enter dormancy
- Fixing dripping faucets, running toilets, and sprinkler leaks
- Shutting of the water supply to outside spigots if no longer in use
- Running dishwashers and washing machines only with full loads
- Taking shorter showers and turning off the tap while brushing teeth
- Using a commercial car wash that recycles water, instead of washing at home
Outdoor water use remains a significant driver of overall demand in many areas, even late in the season, and small habit changes can produce meaningful system-wide savings.
LCA will continue monitoring rainfall totals, groundwater levels, and stream flows in coordination with state and regional partners. The drought watch does not currently impose mandatory restrictions; however, additional conservation measures may be recommended or implemented if dry conditions persist.
Customers can find conservation tips and drought updates at https://www.lehighcountyauthority.org/drinking-water/water-supply-updates/ or by following LCA on social media.
About Lehigh County Authority: Lehigh County Authority (LCA) is a public water and wastewater utility committed to protecting public health and the environment by providing high-quality, safe, and reliable water and wastewater services, serving a population of approximately 270,000 people. A nonprofit, public agency, LCA was founded in 1966 by the County of Lehigh and is governed by a nine‐member board of directors appointed by the County.
Information provided to TVL by:
Taylor Stakes
