KENNER, La. — UPDATE: The Water conservation request was lifted in Orleans, Jefferson, and St. Charles Parish Friday morning.
Residents in Orleans, Jefferson and St. Charles and were still being asked to conserve water while their sewer systems are brought back to full capacity.
The request could last for another 24-48 hours.
Plaquemines Parish lifted their water notice around 2 p.m.
Power outages and large amounts of storm water that entered sewerage systems meant only to pump out wastewater increased the chances of sewage backup into homes.
New Orleans Sewerage and Water Board Executive Director Ghassan Korban said that excess water in those sewerage lines remained as a part used to maintain and regulate the flow of the sewerage water was in need of replacement. That part impacted one of two major systems that pump wastewater out of the city of New Orleans.
"The public is urged to conserve water as we work to bring the sewer system back to full capacity," SWBNO said.
An engaged couple in Lakeview talked about water coming up through their bathtub and toilets Wednesday night as Francine moved in.
Jefferson Parish residents were urged to conserve water earlier Wednesday while Hurricane Francine is striking as there is concern over water infiltration into the sewerage system that could cause raw sewage to back up into homes.
The parish is asking, at least until the emergency is over, for people not to:
- Wash dishes
- Do Laundry
- Other non-essential uses of water.
St. Charles Parish officials also asked residents to conserve water due to power outages and an influx of rainwater affecting sewer lift stations.
To ensure the integrity of our water management systems and to assist in mitigating further issues, we kindly ask all residents to limit their water usage.
Specifically limiting the following activities:
• Dishwashing
• Toilet flushing (only flush when absolutely necessary)
• Showering
• Any other non-essential water use
