Franklin residents are asked to cease all non-essential water use until further notice.
The city is in a state of emergency due to a water shortage caused by the drought, the mayor’s office announced.
According to drought.gov, approximately 2.1 million Tennessee residents are experiencing dry conditions due to extreme heat and limited rainfall.
Nashville and Williamson County are both considered abnormally dry, but other areas in Tennessee, such as Hickman County, are experiencing extreme drought, favorable conditions for crop loss and wildfires.
Franklin serves about 18,500 water customers, but many city residents use other utilities for their water supply, officials said.
The city reported in October 2023 that there was a water shortage due to similar problems.
Non-essential emergency status for water use includes the following, now limited until further notice:
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The cleaning of sidewalks, driveways, and other paved surfaces, except by the City of Franklin in the interest of public safety.
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Filling or refilling swimming pools.
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Non-commercial washing of vehicles and boats.
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Any use of a fire hydrant other than for fighting fires and ensuring good water quality in the distribution system.
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Watering golf courses.
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Dust control or compaction during construction.
These restrictions will remain in place until further notice. For suggestions on how to conserve water, visit the EPA website at www.epa.gov/OW-OWM.html/water-efficacy/.
This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Tennessee city declares water shortage emergency due to dry conditions
