Phase II Severe Water Shortage Declared for Putnam County
Palatka, FL – March 4, 2026 – The St. Johns River Water Management District has issued an order
declaring a Modified Phase II Severe Water Shortage that includes Putnam County and several
surrounding counties phase 2.
The declaration follows continued drought conditions, declining groundwater levels, and below-normal
rainfall across the region. The order modifies the previously issued Phase I declaration and places
additional conservation measures into effect phase 2. Under Phase II restrictions, residential landscape
irrigation is limited to one day per week according to the District’s irrigation schedule irragtion schedule
for lawns.
Irrigation Schedule
• Odd-numbered addresses (address is one that ends in 1, 3, 5, 7 or 9): Saturday
• Even-numbered addresses (address is one that ends in 0, 2, 4, 6 or 8): Sunday
• Non-residential properties: Tuesday
Residents should also follow these guidelines:
• Do not water lawns between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Limit irrigation to no more than one hour per zone
• Avoid wasteful or unnecessary water use
• Repair leaks and limit nonessential outdoor water use
Wasteful water use remains prohibited under the order, and the St. Johns River Water Management
District encourages all residents, businesses, and property managers to reduce water consumption
wherever possible phase 2.
The City of Palatka will continue working with the District to monitor drought conditions and will
provide updates if additional restrictions become necessary.
For updates and water conservation tips, visit www.mypalatka.com or www.sjrwmd.com.