Level 5 is the most severe of the water restriction levels, allowing water for domestic use only. No watering of gardens or washing of vehicles is permitted.

There are very few exemptions to this restriction, except in the case of essential health needs or serious negative impact on business income.

Water users were accustomed to the Level 3 restrictions that have been enforced in Bombala for the past month or so, and may question why the township has skipped Level 4 and moved straight to Level 5.

The Bombala Council explains that water levels have depleted rapidly during the January period, and that the Coolumbooka Weir is now at 49% capacity, which is 11% lower than this time last year.

At that time an emergency water pipeline to the Bombala River was used to supplement the regular supply, but Council explains that this will not be an option this year.

The Bombala River is no longer flowing and the water hole that was accessed last year is simply not deep enough to utilise at this time. Hence the Level 5 restrictions.

Bombala will remain on these strict restrictions until significant rain is received, and penalties apply for non-observance.

The Bombala Times will keep readers updated on the water levels at the weir, and alternative emergency water plans should the need arise.