Prepare for high water bills as the record heat wave and lack of rain has added up to 70% greater water need based on our weather data that runs weather based irrigation. That will likely make your early summer water bills nearly double last year or any of the last 5 years.
There are some awesome weather statistics in our record breaking heat wave:
- During May and June we had only .99 inches of rain which is only 20% of the normal 4.6 inches. June set a record for the most days without rain at 26 days.
- May's average temperature was 2.8 degrees warmer than normal and June's was the warmest on record at 6.7 degrees warmer than normal.
- June 28th was the warmest low temperature ever in June.
- We will likely break the record for consecutive above 90 degrees days if the forecast holds through Wednesday.
http://www.oregonlive.com/records-tumble
http://www.weather.com/breaking-weather-records
POSSIBLE WATER RESTRICTIONS?
We have been diligent in monitoring the irrigation systems we manage to provide proper water while trying our best to conserve. Unfortunately, our record setting heat wave is requiring record water demand. The next question we all are asking is "will there be water restrictions?" The good news is most water providers report ample water despite the dry spring and record breaking heatwave. Below are reports we have received:
Portland Water Bureau (also provides water to the Tualatin Valley Water District):"Portland is not experiencing a water supply shortage, nor do we expect to this summer" http://www.portlandoregon.gov/water/
Hillsboro Water District: Will officially report on Wednesday but has unofficially reported that their supply from the Joint Water Commission is adequate despite the warm dry year.
We have not received any other reports but are monitoring all to allow us to keep our customers informed if any restrictions are planned or implemented. We will keep you informed.
The heat continues through this week but looks to break by next weekend. Hopefully relief is in sight.
