Water restrictions in effect in Valley Stream

Temperatures are expected to top out in the high-80s for the next several days, a far cry from the 100 degree heat that hit Valley Stream earlier this week.

Only 1.36 inches of rain had been reported at nearby John F. Kennedy Airport since June 1, according to the National Weather Service. Because of the lack of rainfall, Long Island American Water, which serves Valley Stream and several surrounding communities, has issued mandatory water restrictions.

Residents are asked not to water their lawns or wash their cars until further notice. William Varley, president of Long Island American Water, said water demand has increased from an average of 28 million gallons a day to nearly 50 million gallons daily. "Long Island American Water appreciates our customers’ compliance with these mandatory restrictions," Varley said, "as we work to maintain high quality water service and essential services such as fire protection during this period."

Lendel Jones, a spokeswoman for Long Island American Water, said while water supply is adequate, but the system is having trouble keeping up with the increased demand. "We have enough water in the aquifer, we just can't pump it fast enough," she said, noting that there could be serve problems if water tanks aren't replenished quickly.

There is a slight chance of thunderstorms Friday, but significant rainfall is expected Saturday on Long Island, the National Weather Service reports.

Phil Tondi, Valley Stream's parks maintenance supervisor, said it has been a challenge to keep the grass green. The most important fields to maintain right now, he said, are Firemen's and Barrett Park. "I try to water them as much I can," he said, "and they're dying. We need rain."

Tondi said that he limits the amount watering that is done because of the restrictions, but the grass can't be ignored because of the village's summer camp at Barrett and sports programs at Firemen's Field.

Most important, Tondi said, is that his parks workers stay hydrated and take regular breaks, getting into the air conditioning whenever possible. "I don't want them to get hurt or sick," he said.

Because of the heat wave, Franklin Hospital has seen an increase in the number of emergency room visits. During the first week of July 1, the hospital saw 88 people because of heat-related medical issues.