DROUGHT
Every Drop Counts.
With low average rainfall, the Texas Panhandle can experience drought and drought-like conditions at any given time.
The best way to prepare for drought and protect yourself and your community during drought is to conserve water.
View drought maps and data for Texas at drought.gov.
Learn more about drought impacts from the Texas Water Development Board.
Before a Drought
Save Water Indoors
Don’t pour water that can be recycled down the drain. Recycle water that is safe, but can’t be consumed, by using it to water plants or pets.
Check your plumbing. Fix leaky pipes and dripping faucets to reduce water waste.
Reduce water waste by insulating pipes and installing instant water heaters.
Use water and energy-efficient appliances. This also includes using low-flow shower heads and low-volume toilets that require less water to function. Avoid using the garbage disposal to reduce wasted water flow.
Save Water Outdoors
Check water well pumps to ensure proper functionality.
Plant native and drought-resistant plants.
Reduce watering. Collect rainwater to reuse for watering or consider installing a drip irrigation system. Be sure water from sprinklers is landing on plants and grass rather than roads or sidewalks.
Manage water needs for your lawn. Plant drought-resistant grasses and allow them to grow deeper roots by setting your lawn mower blades to the highest setting. Avoid too much fertilizer as it increases water needs.
Learn more >Use smart technology that manages water frequency and timing based on weather and soil.
Do Something Every Day To Save.
The best way to prepare for a drought is to manage water use all year. Take small steps every day to save water.
During a Drought
Indoors
Reduce water usage in the bathroom. Take shorter showers and reduce the number of baths you take. Turn the water off while brushing your teeth. Only flush the toilet when necessary.
Reduce water usage in the laundry room. Only run the washer when you have a full load of clothing to wash and be sure to set the load size correctly. Choose energy- and water- efficient models.
Reduce water usage in the kitchen. To clean dishes, only run dishwashers when you have a full load. Don’t use water to thaw meat.
Outdoors
If you must water your lawn, do so in the early morning or late evening. This reduces evaporation and waste.
Water in short sections of time. This helps your lawn absorb better and avoid wasted runoff.
Do not water your lawn during extreme drought.
Use commercial carwashes. Commercial carwashes recycle water, making them a better option during drought.