Ottawa, ON. -The city continues to swelter in hot temperatures and humidity, which may be good if you’re on holidays, but it is creating some worries.   

The Rideau Valley Conservation Authority is calling for residents to try and reduce water usage in the watershed by 10 per cent.   

Patrick Larsen of the R.V.C.A tells 1310News, “We are currently dealing with level one drought conditions. What we’re seeing is July – August conditions in June which is unusual”.  

Over the last three months, we have only received 79 per cent of normal precipitation.  

Larsen says that could affect navigation on the lakes and rivers in our area.

The tinder dry conditions is also drawing concern.   

Ottawa fire’s Mark Messier tells 1310News, there is a burn ban in effect in the city which also applies to those who have a burn permit – “The risks are very high now for grass fires and bush fires”.     

Messier is asking residents to be vigilant when dealing with any combustibles whether it’s your barbeque or discarding cigarette butts.