New York, NY – The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has declared a drought watch for 15 counties across the state, due to significantly reduced rainfall and declining water levels in streams and groundwater. The counties included in the watch are Bronx, Delaware, Dutchess, Greene, Kings, New York, Orange, Putnam, Queens, Richmond, Rockland, Schoharie, Sullivan, Ulster, and Westchester.
While no mandatory restrictions are in place under a drought watch, the DEC is urging residents, particularly those relying on private groundwater wells, to conserve water immediately.
“Recent unseasonably warm weather and lack of precipitation have led to dry conditions for many counties in New York, resulting in some downstate areas being put under drought watch,” said DEC Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar. “Local water restrictions and educating residents about how to help conserve our water resources are crucial steps to help prevent a more severe shortage until conditions improve.”
The drought watch is the first of four drought advisory levels issued by the state, with the others being warning, emergency, and disaster. The decision to declare a watch is based on the State Drought Index, which considers factors like precipitation levels, reservoir and lake levels, streamflow, and groundwater levels across nine drought regions in New York.
New York City also issued a citywide drought watch, citing a historic lack of rainfall. City agencies are now required to update their water conservation plans and prepare for implementation. The public is also urged to conserve water to help maintain the city’s water reserves and potentially avoid a more serious shortage.
The DEC recommends homeowners in affected areas to voluntarily reduce outdoor water use by following these tips: watering lawns only when necessary, using efficient watering methods, reusing water from rain barrels or dehumidifiers, raising lawn mower cutting heights, using a broom instead of a hose for cleaning driveways, and fixing any leaks in pipes, hoses, or faucets.
The DEC also reminds the public that the Catskills, Hudson Valley, and Long Island are currently at high risk for wildfires due to the dry conditions. They urge residents and visitors to exercise caution and follow safety guidelines to prevent wildfires.
“Any outdoor fire can spread quickly, especially if the wind picks up,” cautioned the DEC reminding residents that it “is illegal to burn leaves anywhere in New York State.”
Image: Low water levels at Ellenville’s Beer Kill (Credit: Shawangunk Journal)