View the original press release here.
Charlottesville, VA… September 29, 2026… The Rivanna Water and Sewer Authority (RWSA) has officially lifted a drought watch for the Albemarle County and Charlottesville public drinking water service area.
The Rivanna Regional Drought Response Committee recommended lifting the drought watch after local reservoirs and streams have stabilized.
The drought watch was enacted on July 14, 2026, after the South Fork Rivanna Reservoir stopped spilling and receded 8 inches below the dam. The reservoir has been full and spilling since August 3rd.
Seasonably cooler temperatures, lower evaporation rates, and recent rain events have improved the community’s water supply outlook. Additionally, National and Virginia monitoring reports indicate drought conditions have subsided for the region.
The Rivanna Regional Response Committee includes members from the RWSA, the Albemarle County Service Authority, the County of Albemarle, and the City of Charlottesville Utilities. Collectively, the group met regularly during the drought watch to monitor reservoir levels and stream flows.
Although the drought watch has been lifted, RWSA, the Albemarle County Service Authority, and the City of Charlottesville Utilities continue to encourage everyday conservation efforts to support efficient water use.
Tips on Water Conservation are available at www.serviceauthority.org and www.charlottesville.gov.