Georgia imposes mandatory water restrictions

ATLANTA (AP) — Gov. Nathan Deal has announced increased water restrictions across metro Atlanta and much of north Georgia as the drought continues.

News outlets report the state Environmental Protection Division on Thursday declared a Level 2 drought in 52 counties. The move limits outdoor watering to two days a week.

The order restricts outdoor watering to an odd-even schedule. Even-numbered addresses may water on Wednesday and Saturday between 4 p.m. and 10 a.m., while odd-numbered addresses may water on Thursday and Sunday between 4 p.m. and 10 a.m.

Washing streets and sidewalks, using water for ornamental purposes, non-commercial pressure washing and non-commercial car washing are also banned.

Another 58 counties remain under a Level 1 declaration, meaning conservation is encouraged but water use is not restricted.