Will forecast rain avert need for water restrictions?
Summer kicked off this week with high temperatures across the Far North, so predicted rainfall next week could make a significant contribution to council water supplies ahead of a dry summer.
Warmer temperatures that characterise La Niña, a global climate cycle, are expected to settle in for the summer ahead, increasing the likelihood that levels of council water sources could fall below normal. However, a consistent period of rain could still improve the outlook for river flows and soil moisture levels ahead of the holiday break.
Both the Met Service Te Ratonga Tirorangi and the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research Taihoro Nukurangi (NIWA) are predicting possibly heavy rain to arrive in western regions next week if strong westerly winds develop.
If the rainfall does not arrive, water restrictions may need to be implemented in the Far North before Christmas. The council applies restrictions to its water supplies to protect the water sources – rivers, streams, and aquifers – and to ensure continued water supply during extended periods of dry weather.
Water restriction signs, which will be distributed to retail outlets across the Far North ahead of Christmas, help communities in each town know what the restriction levels are and when saving water is critical. In past years, water restrictions have been key to averting serious water shortages.
The four levels are:
- Level 1 : No water restrictions but please use water sensibly.
- Level 2: You cannot use outdoor sprinklers.
- Level 3: You cannot use any outdoor sprinklers or hoses.
- Level 4 : Essential water use only – cleaning, cooking and washing. There is no outdoor water use from council supplies.
Managing water
The council’s Water Shortage Management Committee is made up of staff from the council and the Far North Water Alliance, who operate and manage the council's water assets. The committee meets regularly to discuss the health of the district’s water sources, river flow levels, weather forecasts, and to gauge the likely demand for water over summer months.
The committee makes recommendations for water restrictions based on the latest water flow and consumption data, and the water-take consent levels set by Northland Regional Council. The focus is on encouraging water conservation and protecting vulnerable water sources.
All eight council water supplies are currently at Level 1, where consumers are asked to use water sensibly. You can check in about water-supply-restriction-levels over summer and find water saving tips on our website.
To report a water leak please call us on 0800 920 029.
Below - the seasonal outlook from NIWA.
