Stage Three water restrictions take effect today for residents connected to the Comox Valley Water System as exceptionally dry conditions continue.

The restrictions apply in Courtenay, Comox, K’ómoks First Nation and the Comox Valley Water Local Service Area.

All lawn watering is prohibited under Stage Three. Residents are also prohibited from pressure-washing driveways and boulevards, filling swimming pools, hot tubs or garden ponds, and washing vehicles or boats outside a commercial facility.

Trees, shrubs, flowers and vegetables may still be watered using a hand-held container, a hose equipped with an automatic shut-off nozzle or a drip-irrigation system.

The tighter restrictions coincide with BC Hydro reducing flows in the Puntledge River to conserve the remaining water stored in the Comox Lake Reservoir.

River flows are being lowered from approximately 11.3 cubic metres per second to nine and could be reduced further to 7.5 cubic metres per second if dry conditions continue.

BC Hydro says inflows into the reservoir since May are the lowest recorded in 64 years.

The reduced river flows and Stage Three restrictions are expected to remain in place until significant fall rainfall improves conditions in the reservoir.

Current water restrictions and conservation information are available by visiting Comox Valley RD.