TRENTON — The Murphy administration issued a statewide Drought Watch on Friday, urging residents and businesses to voluntarily conserve water as dry conditions persist across New Jersey. The state has experienced significantly below-average rainfall over the past three months, which has reduced streamflows, reservoir levels, and groundwater supplies.
The Drought Watch is intended to raise public awareness about the strain on the state’s water resources and to encourage voluntary conservation. Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette emphasized the importance of taking action now, saying, “Voluntary water conservation now can help to avoid more serious and restrictive measures in the future.”
New Jersey has seen below-average rainfall during four of the last five months, with temperatures consistently above normal. Rainfall deficits have ranged from 2 inches to 7 inches below average over the past 90 days. According to State Climatologist David Robinson, September was the third driest since records began in 1895, and October could be on track to set a new record for dryness.
If conditions do not improve, state officials may consider issuing a Drought Warning or declaring a Drought Emergency, which could bring mandatory water use restrictions. The last statewide Drought Emergency in New Jersey occurred in 2002 and lasted until 2003.
The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is closely monitoring key drought indicators and will continue to update the public on any necessary actions. Residents are encouraged to reduce outdoor water use, particularly as temperatures drop and plant watering becomes less necessary.