Improving water conditions in the northern part of the state due to this year’s El Niño rains will mean loosening water restrictions in Long Beach.

The Water Department Board of Commissioners voted Thursday to move Long Beach to a Stage 1 water shortage — downgraded from the Stage 2 water shortage that was in effect starting May 2015. A Stage 1 shortage means residents may water on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from April through September. During the cooler months of October through March, a two-day per week watering schedule will be in effect.