Newport News City Manager Alan K. Archer declared a Stage 2 Drought Warning for the Newport News Waterworks service area on May 21, urging customers to voluntarily reduce non-essential water use due to ongoing dry weather, below-average rainfall, and lower-than-normal reservoir levels.
The request comes as the region continues to experience persistent dry conditions that have reduced natural inflow into reservoirs supplying drinking water throughout the Peninsula. Early conservation is being encouraged in order to help preserve long-term water availability should the drought persist.
Newport News Waterworks serves more than 410,000 customers in Newport News, Hampton, Poquoson, York County, and parts of James City County through one of Virginia’s largest raw water reservoir systems. The system relies heavily on seasonal rainfall and watershed health to maintain adequate supply throughout the year. Regional drought status is monitored using local reservoir data and stream flow measurements along with guidance from state environmental agencies. Virginia uses a staged drought-monitoring approach that promotes voluntary conservation before imposing mandatory restrictions.
“Water conservation is one of the most effective ways the community can help protect regional water resources during prolonged dry periods,” said Yann Le Gouellec, Director of Newport News Waterworks. “Small actions taken collectively across our service area can make a meaningful difference in preserving reservoir levels and supporting reliable water service for our region.”
Residents are encouraged to limit non-essential uses such as watering lawns only between 8 p.m. and 10 a.m., repairing household leaks promptly, running full loads in dishwashers and washing machines, turning off taps while brushing teeth or shaving, and reducing unnecessary daytime usage.
The city will continue monitoring weather patterns and reservoir levels while coordinating with state partners to ensure continued reliability of public water supplies. For additional information about conservation tips or updates on services, residents can visit Newport News Waterworks.
According to the official website, Newport News covers areas along the James River and Hampton Roads Harbor in Virginia and includes sectors such as shipbuilding, technological research, and international commerce.
