Roanoke remains under voluntary water restrictions as Carvins Cove stays below full pool

Roanoke residents remain under Stage 1 voluntary water restrictions, the city said in its latest August recap, despite recent rainfall in the valley.

As of Aug. 13, the city reported that the Carvins Cove reservoir stood 17.25 feet below full pool. The Western Virginia Water Authority's drought-contingency plan moved to voluntary restrictions on July 9, when the reservoir was 15 feet below full pool.

Carvins Cove is Roanoke's primary water source. The city encouraged residents to conserve water by addressing leaking fixtures, shortening showers and watering lawns, gardens and outdoor plants before 10 a.m. or after 7 p.m.

The notice does not establish mandatory limits or a date for ending the voluntary stage. Residents should follow updates from the city and the water authority as reservoir conditions change.

Source: City of Roanoke, July and August 2026 recap, checked Aug. 31, 2026. Original editorial SVG artwork is illustrative and does not depict a specific reservoir condition.