The Regional District of Nanaimo has moved to Stage 3 water restrictions because of abnormally dry conditions on eastern Vancouver Island. Lawn watering is now limited to one day a week, while some areas already under Stage 4 restrictions remain unchanged.

Low snowpack and falling lake levels have forced early reductions in Cowichan River flows as the watershed heads into a dry summer. Managers warn that additional cuts and even pumping may be needed if dry conditions continue.

The regional district implements summer water restrictions annually at the start of May, but this year it is taking the unusual step of skipping Stage 1 restrictions and heading straight for Stage 2.