Pflugerville declares water disaster after pipeline failure, enacts restrictions

Pflugerville officials declared a local disaster March 4 after a pipeline failure reduced the amount of raw water flowing into Lake Pflugerville, prompting strict emergency water restrictions across the city.

What we know

Mayor Doug Weiss signed the disaster declaration, citing an imminent threat to the city’s public water system as lake levels continue to decline, according to a news release.

Along with the declaration, the city activated Stage 3 emergency water restrictions, limiting water use to indoor purposes only for all city water customers.

City officials said the emergency follows the failure of a pipeline that feeds raw water into Lake Pflugerville, the city’s primary source of drinking water.

Engineering projections show lake levels could fall below the city’s raw water intake structure by April 18, which could limit the city’s ability to withdraw enough water to meet essential needs such as drinking water, sanitation and firefighting.

Crews are installing a temporary pipeline to help restore water flow into the lake while repairs to the damaged line continue. The city is also activating additional wells and working with Manville Water Supply Company to supplement the water supply.

The emergency measures come as Pflugerville continues work on a secondary raw water pipeline.

Weiss said community conservation will be critical as the city works to stabilize the system.

“If we all reduce water use now, we can help protect our supply and avoid more severe impacts. Every drop counts,” he said in the release.

City officials said the disaster declaration allows Pflugerville to pursue emergency funding and technical assistance from state agencies while the water system is stabilized.

What you should know

Outdoor activities such as lawn irrigation, filling empty swimming pools, residential car washing, installing new landscaping that requires irrigation and washing driveways or sidewalks are prohibited for city of Pflugerville water customers.

Residential patio misters remain allowed under the restrictions, though commercial establishments may not operate them. The city is also asking all community members to not wash their vehicles. However, if they choose to do so, they are encouraged to use commercial car washes that recycle water.

Customers who violate the restrictions could face warnings or fines ranging from $1,500 to $2,000 per violation, according to city officials.

Lake Pflugerville and its fishing piers are closed to recreational usage to include boating, swimming and fishing. The trail and playground remain open.