STORM LAKE, IA (Northwestiowanow) – The City of Storm Lake has announced mandatory water conservation measures will remain in effect until further notice.

The conservation order was issued earlier this month after operating issues took two wells out of production and water usage neared the city’s treatment capacity.

The wells have since been returned to service, but water demand remains at a near-unsustainable level as hot and dry weather continues across the region.

The mandatory conservation order applies to customers in Storm Lake, Lakeside, Lake Creek and Truesdale. Restrictions include no lawn watering between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m., limits on residential vehicle washing, a ban on cleaning driveways and sidewalks with water, and restrictions on refilling pools and power washing without prior city approval. Violations may result in municipal infraction penalties.

City officials say a new water tower has been placed into service and plans are in place for a larger water treatment facility, but water production remains limited until that project is completed.

For more information, contact Storm Lake City Hall at 712-732-8000.