Kempsey received less than a third of its average annual rainfall in 2019, with 368.8mm of rain recorded for the year, according to the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM). The average yearly rainfall for Kempsey is around 1186mm.

In December, 44.6mm of rain was recorded at the Kempsey Airport. The wettest month of the year was March, with 82mm recorded and direst was August with only 3.6mm of rain, according to BOM.

Over the next few days, locals can expect a low chance of rain with a 20 per cent chance of a shower in the afternoon on Friday and a 30 per cent chance of rain on Sunday. Rainfall predicted over the next week is expected to be between 1-5mm.

Residents are reminded that due to the dry conditions, Kemspey Shire Council have disconnected all outdoor taps and showers in council parks, reserves and other open spaces such as beaches. However, internal taps in public toilets and taps at fish cleaning tables will not be affected.

Council's Director Infrastructure Operations, Robert Fish, said residents are urged to be smart about their water usage as the dry conditions continue.

"Short showers, recycling water from the washing machine for cleaning and use outside and fixing any leaking pipes are all important steps for everyone to take," he said.

"We are appealing to the community to be aware of the impact the drought is having and to conserve our water."

For more information about Level 3 Water Restrictions visit council's website here.