While the weekend's downpour across the Macleay may have been a welcome sight, it unfortunately wasn't enough to replenish water levels to the point of altering water restrictions.
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Kempsey Shire Council's Manager Water and Sewer, Wes Trotter, said Council is reminding residents that Level 3 water restrictions will continue to remain in place until further notice.
"The much-needed rainfall across the shire has provided some relief, with substantial flows recorded in the Macleay River and a slight increase in water levels in the Steuart McIntyre Dam," he said.
"Previously the dam levels were at 56 per cent and now we are sitting at 58 per cent. This rise in dam levels equates to 50 megalitres, the equivalent of six days supply.
"However, it unfortunately hasn't eased our current water situation.
"Our calculations indicate that we need at least a month of pumping water out of the Macleay River to get the dam back to the level it was when Level 3 restrictions kicked in."
Without significant follow up rain, Mr Trotter said Level 3 water restrictions would need to be enforced for the foreseeable future and could not rule out a move to Level 4 restrictions.
"We still need a significant amount of rainfall in the upper catchment to replenish our water levels," Mr Trotter said.
"Council is appealing to residents and visitors to continue to be mindful of their water usage."
Council will continue to cart water to the upriver towns of Willawarrin, Bellbrook and Thungutti. Water will be carted daily until the local water quality improves.
For more information on the Do's and Don'ts under the Level 3 restrictions and for the FAQS go to: www.kempsey.nsw.gov.au/water-restrictions