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Virginia Drought Plan Activated; Gretna Declares Water Emergency

7/10/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Western Virginia Water Authority activated its drought contingency plan for the first time on July 9, 2026.
Stage 1 voluntary water-use restrictions began in Roanoke, Roanoke County, Franklin, Botetourt, Boones Mill and Vinton after Carvins Cove Reservoir fell 14.6 feet below full pond level.
Gretna declared a water emergency and asked residents to cut nonessential outdoor use.
Officials assure customers that water service and quality will remain uninterrupted.

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Story summary

The Western Virginia Water Authority activated its drought contingency plan for the first time on July 9, 2026.
Stage 1 voluntary water-use restrictions began in Roanoke, Roanoke County, Franklin, Botetourt, Boones Mill and Vinton after Carvins Cove Reservoir fell 14.6 feet below full pond level.
Gretna declared a water emergency and asked residents to cut nonessential outdoor use.
Officials assure customers that water service and quality will remain uninterrupted.