Georgia Environmental Protection Division Declares Drought Response Level 1

Posted: May 6, 2026

On April 27, 2026, the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) declared a statewide Drought Response Level 1 for all public water systems using surface water or groundwater. This decision followed months of monitoring drought conditions and discussions with water systems across the state.

Under a Level 1 response, public water systems must launch a public information campaign to help residents understand current drought conditions and the importance of water conservation. Outdoor watering between 4 PM and 10 AM remains allowed, and utilities may not impose additional restrictions without an approved variance.

EPD evaluates drought conditions using tools such as the U.S. Drought Monitor and tracks factors like rainfall, stream flows, groundwater levels, reservoir conditions, and soil moisture.

For more details on drought conditions and EPD actions, visit: https://epd.georgia.gov/watershed-protection-branch/drought-management

For water conservation resources, visit: https://epd.georgia.gov/watershed-protection-branch/water-conservation