City Water Division Issues Water Use Advisory

May 15, 2026

The Department of Public Works Water Division has issued a Water Use Advisory in response to ongoing drought conditions affecting the Seacoast region of New Hampshire. 

To help maintain adequate water supply throughout the summer, the City is asking all customers served by the Portsmouth Water System and the Pease Tradeport Water System to minimize outdoor irrigation and refrain from non-essential outdoor water use. While this is not currently an emergency, the City of Portsmouth along with State officials, surrounding public water systems, and members of the Seacoast Drinking Water Commission are sharing this information to keep water users informed about the current drought and water supply conditions.

Recent weekly assessments by the U.S. Drought Monitor [New Hampshire | U.S. Drought Monitor] show that the Seacoast area continues to experience below‑average precipitation, reduced streamflow, and declining groundwater levels. These factors increase stress on local water sources, particularly during the high‑demand summer months. Residents and businesses across the region are encouraged to use water wisely and remain aware of the cumulative impact that small conservation steps can have on overall supply.

This Water Use Advisory will be reevaluated as new information about drought conditions becomes available. For more information, please visit: portsnh.co/water or email Al Pratt, Water Resource Director at anpratt@portsmouthnh.gov or Mason Caceres, Assistant Water Resource Manager at mecaceres@portsmouthnh.gov.

 

US Drought Monitor map for NH May 12, 2026