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Governor Kathy Hochul has declared a statewide drought watch due to prolonged dry conditions and lack of rainfall. The governor has also elevated 15 counties to drought warning status, including all counties in New York City's five boroughs, Dutchess, Greene, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Schoharie, Sullivan, Ulster, and Westchester. The announcement comes as the state grapples with declining levels of streamflow and groundwater.
According to the official New York State government website, Governor Hochul stated, “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.”
The state is urging residents, particularly those dependent on private groundwater wells, to conserve water whenever possible in the coming weeks. The New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has also issued a drought watch, with reservoir levels at 63.6% capacity as of November 8, 2024. The DEP is asking New Yorkers to reduce water usage, such as reporting open fire hydrants and leaks to 311, only flushing toilets when necessary, taking shorter showers, and not running the tap during activities such as shaving or brushing teeth.
The dry weather has also increased the risk of wildfires across the state. Governor Hochul announced a statewide burn ban to help prevent fires. The Hudson Valley and Long Island fire danger is at “very high” risk; the Catskill, Upper Hudson Valley/Champlain, St. Lawrence, and Leatherstocking areas are “high;” Adirondack, High Peaks, Lake Ontario, and Southern Tier are currently at “moderate.”