Port Angeles City Council voted to advance drought measures on July 23, 2026, as Elwha River flows continue to decrease. The decision follows a public hearing where council members discussed implementing additional water conservation measures to address the declining river flows.
The council's action comes as the Elwha River's flow rates have dropped to levels that threaten local water supplies and ecosystems. Council member Sarah Chen stated, 'We must act now to protect our water resources before the situation worsens.'
The council will hold a follow-up meeting on August 10 to finalize the conservation plan. The plan includes mandatory water restrictions for residential and commercial users during peak summer months.