City of Walhalla temporarily restricting outdoor water use

WALHALLA, S.C. (WSPA) — The city of Walhalla has implemented a mandatory outdoor water use restriction.

The restriction was implemented Thursday because the city’s water department experienced “system pressure issues.” According to the city, the issues were caused by customers using excessive amounts of water while using outdoor irrigation system during the recent hot weather.

“I got a call from the city yesterday,” Doris Childress said. “They said there was a water ban on basically everything except your garden because we haven’t had water in a while, and things are getting dry.”

The restriction does not apply to agricultural operations.

City Administrator Celia Myers said people who do not comply comply with the restriction will not be penalized, but she urges everyone to cooperate.

“People exploit whatever water is available,” Childress said. “As it becomes less available, it’s just not going to be there. We have to share.”

Jarim Gonzalez told 7NEWS his water pressure started slowing down Thursday.

“It’s just lower than usual,” Gonzalez said.

According to Myers, Walhalla’s water supply has already increased since residents began conserving Thursday. She said she does not expect the restrictions to be in place for longer than a few weeks. It could be shortened if the city receives rain.

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