CENTRAL FLORIDA — Several counties and cities across Central Florida are asking residents to limit their water usage due to strains on sewer systems.
FLAGLER COUNTY
Flagler County emergency management announced Thursday morning that sewer systems are overwhelmed throughout the county and residents should use water on an emergency basis only.
The city of Bunnell said crews responded to an issue with the lift station on Anderson Road.
The city said in a statement that flooding from Milton throughout the night has increased the strain and pressure on the wastewater system, lift stations and the treatment plant. Water going down the drains from businesses and homes will add to the strain on the city sewer system.
ORANGE COUNTY
Water officials are requesting that residents reduce their impact on the wastewater system by cutting down on water usage when possible. This will reduce the strain on our pump stations and help prevent sewage overflows, they said. Limit large, immediate water usage in dishwashers, washing machines and baths. Water stored in bathtubs should be drained slowly, not all at once.
OSCEOLA COUNTY
Toho Water Authority is asking customers to limit their water use. This will help area wastewater collection systems that are feeling the strain from the heavy rain and flooding caused by the hurricane to re-establish normal operations. Customers should:
- Only use water when necessary
- Avoid dishwasher and clothes washer use
- Keep irrigation systems off
- Avoid contact with standing water
- Report sewer backups by contacting our customer service at 407-944-5000
SEMINOLE COUNTY
Seminole County said limiting water use now and after the storm helps reduce the pressure on the county's lift stations and prevents sewer overflows.
Water should be used for essential functions only, the county warned. The use of washing machines and dishwashers, and reducing time in the shower is recommended. Residents should try to only flush toilets "when necessary," the county said.
The city of Casselberry is also asking residents to conserve water to ease pressure on lift stations and prevent sewer backups.
The city of Winter Springs is urging residents to limit water usage to help reduce the pressure on the city's wastewater systems.
The city of DeLand is urging all residents to conserve water at this time. The city's intake structure, which handles liquid waste like toilet water, is completely flooded. Crews are working to create a berm around it.
The city of Port Orange has asked residents to conserve and limit water usage during this time.