Feeling Extra Dry? Why Killeen, Texas Is Flushing Hydrants During a Drought

Have you noticed water running down your street?

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It isn't your imagination, it hasn't been raining, and yes, it's coming from the fire hydrants.

Water Restrictions in Killeen, Texas

Last week, the City of Killeen initiated Stage 1 of the Drought Contingency and Water Conservation Plan adopted by Killeen City Council, with voluntary water conservation advised at all times for residents.

One condition of Stage 1 Shortage Conditions is to request that customers practice water conservation and minimize or discontinue using water for non-essential purposes.

Flushing Water During a Drought?

Despite the water restrictions currently in place, people have been noticing that multiple fire hydrants all over the area have been draining. Last Thursday, Julia Hardge Conner contacted the city after three weeks of a gushing hydrant on Frog Drive in Killeen.

After multiple attempts, Julia was finally able to get someone to shut the water off and remove the box on Friday, August 5th. However, she found another gushing hydrant Friday morning at a Little Caesars Pizza near Stan Schlueter Loop in Killeen. Julia said it was turned off Saturday morning, but the box was still connected.

The City of Killeen's Response on Water Main Flushing

According to the Killeen Daily Herald, residents all over the city have been asking why this water cannot be recycled or re-routed for use on landscapes, irrigation, or collected for other uses as non-potable water. While that question has not been addressed, the TCEQ website states that all dead-end mains must be flushed at monthly intervals. Water can begin to lose its chlorine residual, especially during periods of extreme heat. Flushing helps get fresh water into the dead-end area and keep disinfectant from dropping below acceptable levels.

However, everyone seeing the gush of liquid going down their street would probably appreciate the ability to save all that extra water and use it for another purpose. In the meantime, you might want to brush up on your rain dance!