'Actions required': NYC residents urged to conserve water amid drought watch
NEW YORK (PIX11) – New York City, Westchester County, and Rockland County are all under a drought watch, the Department of Environmental Conservation announced on Saturday.
The watch comes amid a historic ongoing drought that is now the second-longest stretch without rainfall, surpassing a 28-day drought recorded in 1941.
The lack of rain has forced city agencies to urge New Yorkers to conserve every drop of water possible.
“We encourage all New Yorkers to take this drought watch seriously and conserve water where you can. While water conservation is always essential, it is particularly crucial during extended dry periods, such as those experienced in New York state throughout this fall,” said Chief of Staff and Extreme Weather Coordinator Camille Joseph Varlack. “Implementing voluntary water conservation measures now can help prevent the need for more stringent restrictions in the future. The administration is ready to implement immediate measures across city agencies to conserve water and stands prepared to take further actions if required.”
According to officials, a watch is the first of four levels of state drought advisories. If New Yorkers continue to use excessive water and the drought continues, water use restrictions could be placed.
Officials also noted local public water suppliers may require conservation measures depending on local needs and conditions.
Matthew Euzarraga is a multimedia journalist from El Paso, Texas. He has covered local news and LGBTQIA topics in the New York City Metro area since 2021. He joined the PIX11 Digital team in 2023. You can see more of his work here.