The Stage 3 water shortage declared for the Upcountry area on Oct. 17 has been downgraded to Stage 2.

On Tuesday, Maui County officials reported that surface water flows and reservoir levels had improved enough to suspend the Stage 3 restrictions and return to Stage 2.

The Department of Water Supply attributed the improved flows to recent rainfall and decreased demand but encouraged residents to continue using water wisely.

The Upcountry service area includes Makawao, Upper and Lower Kula, Haiku, Haliimaile, Pukalani, Kokomo, Kaupakalua, Ulumalu, Keokea, Ulupalakua and Kanaio.

Under the Stage 2 water shortage, water conservation measures remain in effect, including irrigation being allowed only one day per week, depending on the area.

Makawao and Haliimaile may irrigate on Mondays; Haiku, Kokomo and Ulumalu on Tuesdays; Pukalani on Wednesdays; Upper Kula on Thursdays; Lower Kula on Fridays; Ulupalakua, Kanaio and Keokea on Saturdays; and Kaupakalua on Sundays. Parks, school grounds and recreation fields must also follow the same irrigation schedule.

The department requires that all nonessential commercial and industrial water use cease, and customers must repair leaks, breaks or faulty sprinklers within three days of receiving notice. The use of potable water at temporary construction meters and the washing of personal vehicles are also prohibited.

Agricultural water customers are subject to the same restrictions.

With the mayor’s approval, the water director may declare a Stage 2 water shortage when anticipated demand is projected to exceed available supply by 16% to 30%.

The county declared a Stage 1 water shortage on April 17 and upgraded it to Stage 2 on Sept. 11.

The department said it will continue to monitor supply levels, demand and weather to determine whether Stage 2 restrictions can be lifted or if Stage 3 measures need to be reinstated.

For more information, call the department at (808) 463-3110 or go to www.mauicounty.gov/water.