As dry weather continues to create a wildfire risk throughout New York, Governor Kathy Hochul has declared a statewide drought watch.
“Recent unseasonably warm weather and lack of precipitation have led to dry conditions for many counties in New York, resulting in Hudson Valley and New York City area counties being elevated to drought warning status and a statewide drought watch,” Governor Hochul said. “Across the state, local water restrictions and educating New Yorkers about how to help conserve water resources are crucial steps to help prevent a more severe shortage until conditions improve.”
There are no mandatory restrictions under a drought watch.
Additionally, 15 counties – Bronx, Delaware, Dutchess, Greene, Kings, New York, Orange, Putnam, Queens, Richmond, Rockland, Schoharie, Sullivan, Ulster, and Westchester – have been placed under a drought warning. Residents of those counties are encouraged to conserve water whenever possible over the coming weeks.
Those in regions under a drought watch or warning are encouraged to follow these tips to conserve water:
- Reuse water collected in rain barrels, dehumidifiers or air conditioners to water plants.
- Use a broom, not a hose, to clean driveways and sidewalks.
- Fix leaking pipes, fixtures, toilets, hoses and faucets.
- Wash only full loads of dishes and laundry.
- Take shorter showers or fill the bathtub partly.
- Install water saving plumbing fixtures.
- Don’t run the tap to make water hot or cold.
- Wash cars less frequently.
New York State has four levels of drought advisories: watch, warning, emergency, and disaster. You can view current drought conditions on the Department of Environmental Conservation’s website.
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