By Dan Whitcomb

LOS ANGELES (Reuters), – California Governor Gavin Newsom said Monday that he would order a strict reduction in water use in California if both residents and businesses do not reduce their consumption during severe drought.

Newsom made the ultimatum in a meeting with California’s biggest water agencies. This was ahead of what experts believe could be another hot and dry summer, following more than three decades of drought.

“Every water agency across the state needs to take more aggressive actions to communicate about the drought emergency and implement conservation measures,” Newsom said, according to a transcript of his remarks issued by his office.

Although Californians have made substantial changes since last year’s drought, we are seeing an increase in water consumption as the summer season approaches. We all have to be more thoughtful about how to make every drop count,” the governor said.

California has been suffering from a drought that continues for many years, resulting in a number of extremely harsh fire seasons.

Governor’s Office suggested that residents conserve their water and do less laundry.

Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego Riverside, San Bernardino, San Bernardino, Ventura, and San Bernardino residents have been ordered by the Metropolitan Water District to water their gardens and lawns no more often than once a week.

If residents are found watering their lawns excessively, the agency will fine them $2,000

Newsom, a Democratic first term, had previously urged Californians that they use 15 percent less water. On Monday, he told water agencies that his efforts were not enough.

The governor received harsh criticism last year for his tough response to the COVID-19 epidemic. He will be running for another term during the November election.