A water emergency has been declared in the city of Guymon in the Panhandle where dry conditions and the lack of rainfall are worsening.
The city declared a State 3 Water Emergency and immediately implemented Emergency Water Conservation Measures. It was issued July 22 and fell in accordance with the 2024 Water Conservation Plan. The move was taken after demand from residents and businesses reached more than 95% capacity of the Guymon water system’s available water production capacity.
“Preserving sufficient water capacity is critical to ensuring reliable service for fire protection, emergency medical response, hospitals, schools, nursing homes, and other essential public services,” a city declaration reads, “as well as maintaining the ability to respond to major fires, infrastructure failures, or natural disasters.”
The city held a public hearing Thursday afternoon to educate the public on the current water stage and the conservation steps that were necessary.
The Amarillo Globe reported that according to stipulations of the proclamation, outdoor lawn watering will be limited to one day per week, with odd addresses using water on Saturday and even addresses using water on Sunday. Water usage would be allowed only after 7 p.m. and before 11 a.m. Handwatering of gardens and ornamentals would be allowed anytime but excludes grass or turf.
Any waste of water, as defined by the Guymon Code of Ordinances including non-compliance with emergency restrictions will be strictly enforced.
