If you've been letting the water run a little longer than necessary, now might be a good time to knock that off.
The Town of Chatham has declared a Stage 2 Water Emergency — Drought Warning, effective September 10, 2026, according to Pittsylvania County officials.
Town water customers are being urged to begin water conservation measures immediately as dry conditions continue across the area.
And apparently, Mother Nature forgot to pay the water bill.
Officials say the declaration comes after a lack of rainfall and drought-like conditions that have persisted for much of 2026, combined with declining water levels at Cherrystone Lake and Roaring Fork Lake reservoirs.
Those falling reservoir levels have officials taking a closer look at how much water is being used — because there isn't exactly a secret underground swimming pool full of backup water waiting around the corner.
Residents who receive their water from the Town of Chatham are being encouraged to conserve wherever possible.
That means thinking twice before letting the hose run, taking shorter showers, fixing those leaks and avoiding unnecessary outdoor water use.
The Stage 2 declaration is a warning that the situation has moved beyond simply being a little dry.
The water is getting lower — and the town wants residents to start using less before the situation gets worse.
For additional information about the water emergency and conservation measures, residents can visit the Town of Chatham's website.
So, Chatham — water the plants if you absolutely have to, fix that dripping faucet, and maybe let the car stay dirty for a while.
Right now, every drop counts.
Original Facebook source: Open post
Source note: Star News TV · Sep 12, 2026 6:43 PM.