Water Works Orders 25% Water Reduction - WICU12/WSEE Erie, PA News, Sports, Weather and Events

The heat is on, and for the Erie Water Works, that means curtailment of water for customers to meet expected demand.

That demand is on the rise given the heat and lack of rain as farmers and homeowners turn to watering plants to keep them alive.

But major repairs at the Richard Wasielewski Water Treatment Plant has reduced capacity in the system, so a 25 percent mandatory curtailment has been issued to make sure there's enough water to last through the weekend.

As of late Friday afternoon the system was generating enough water to meet that demand, but there is no margin for error.

It is expected that the Millcreek plant could be at least partially on line by early next week, which would end the crisis.

"We really need the public's help with this," Chief Executive Paul Vojtek told us, "and I hope we get it."

You are asked not to water lawns, flower beds or wash your car over the weekend. If you must water, use a soaker hose or water bags to use the water without waste.