Hunter Water is calling on customers to make Smart Water Choices after the Lower Hunter recorded its highest April water use in 20 years, alongside falling dam levels and ongoing dry conditions.
Residential water consumption reached more than 3.7 billion litres during April, equating to an average of 189 litres per person per day. Typically, April usage sits closer to 163 litres per person, or about 3.2 billion litres across the region.
Hunter Water says the lack of rain during what is usually a replenishing month, combined with above-average temperatures, drove demand to its highest April level since 2006. As a result, drinking water storages have fallen to around 62 per cent, their lowest point in more than five years.
Executive Manager Strategy and Engagement Emma Berry said the figures highlight the need for early action.
“We can’t control the weather, but we can control how much water we use. Every day is a good day to save water, and right now it’s more important than ever,” she said.
With long-range forecasts pointing to continued warm and dry conditions, Hunter Water is urging households and businesses across the Hunter and Upper Hunter to reduce water use through simple measures such as shorter showers, watering gardens at the right times and fixing leaks promptly.
