Drought watch issued for D.C. region

A drought watch has been issued for the Washington metro region, and residents and businesses in the area are being asked to conserve water.

The watch is the second level of the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments four-stage drought response. The first level is normal, the third level in warning and the fourth level is emergency, which would result in mandatory water restrictions.

The summer's record high temperatures and low rainfall have affected levels in the Potomac River Basin. The Capital Weather Gang reports that Aug. 22 and 23 are the last time more than a trace of rain was measured at Reagan National and Dulles airports.