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Water restrictions return to Stage 1

RMOW reservoirs recovered after water main break
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A water main break on Lorimer Road has prompted stage four water conservation in Whistler. Courtesy of the RMOW

Update: Officials say Whistler's reservoir levels have recovered following a water main break last week, and water restrictions for all neighbourhoods have returned to Stage 1.

The Resort Municipality of Whistler (RMOW) moved Whistler's water conservation to a stage four level on Wednesday, Aug. 15.

That means the community and local businesses can only use outdoor water for drinking purposes. The move comes after a water main break on Tuesday, Aug. 14 on Lorimer Road that severely impacted Whistler's main water supply.

"Water use reduction is the only way for the reservoir levels to recover while the water main is repaired," according to a release from the RMOW. "Work continues to repair the water main, but it is a serious break that may require several days to complete."

The restrictions mean that no one in Whistler can water their garden or lawn, refill their pool or wash their vehicles. Officials are also encouraging people to reduce water use by turning down air conditioners, taking shorter showers and reducing any non-essential use.

Whistler's reservoirs are currently at the minimum level required to ensure there's enough water in case of a fire emergency, officials say. As a result, the restrictions are required to avoid a boil water advisory.

The RMOW, public and private companies and property managers have all shut off irrigation. Officials have temporarily revoked construction exemption permits, and forest wetting and fuel thinning has been put on hold.

For more visit whistler.ca.