MD Turns to Susquehanna River As Drought Drains Water Supplies: What To Know

BALTIMORE COUNTY, MD — Declining water supplies amid Maryland's ongoing drought have prompted Baltimore officials to make preparations for a new source: the Susquehanna River.

The Baltimore City Department of Public Works said in a Monday release that it was preemptively taking steps that would allow authorities to blend water from the Susquehanna River with water sourced from the Prettyboy, Liberty and Loch Raven reservoirs.

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The switch is expected to start in October. East Baltimore residents, as well as individuals in Baltimore County, are likely to be most impacted by the shift.

The Authorities said it is possible the water supplement could cause "minor changes" to the taste, odor or color, but that drinking water would continue to meet standards.

The Susquehanna water would be treated and tested during the process, officials said.

Under the U.S. Drought Monitor, much of Maryland is either listed as being abnormally or moderately dry, including the Baltimore Metro region.

Officials said the region has previously pulled water from the Susquehanna River for emergency purposes but did not specify when it was last used.

As water restrictions remain in place for the area, DPW authorities urge residents to conserve water. "Every drop saved today helps protect our regional water supply for the days and weeks ahead," officials said.