Dry weather conditions are challenging the ability of the county's wells in the Kilauea region to meet current needs.

The Department of Water has asked residents of the Kilauea area, including Wailapa and Kalihiwai, to reduce water use voluntarily for the next several months.

In a press release this week, the department suggested minimizing lawn watering, car washing, dust control sprinkling and other nonessential activities.

Residents also should take measures to reduce the threat of fire around their properties, the department said.