New Jersey has elevated its drought status to a Drought Warning due to ongoing dry conditions and an increase in wildfires. Governor Phil Murphy and DEP Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette highlighted the record-breaking dry spell and the impact of climate change during a virtual press conference, urging residents to conserve water. The Drought Warning designation grants the DEP authority to manage water supplies more tightly, allowing the agency to transfer water among systems and control reservoir releases to balance ecological needs and water supply demands.
In response to the severe drought, New Jersey has also implemented strict fire restrictions statewide, banning all open fires except for those in contained stoves using propane, natural gas, or electricity. The New Jersey Forest Fire Service has been contending with an unprecedented rise in wildfires, with over 1,300 fires burning more than 11,000 acres this year—well above the historical average. Officials emphasized that the prolonged dry spell, coupled with high temperatures, has exacerbated water scarcity and wildfire risks, underscoring the need for collective action to reduce water use and prevent further fire outbreaks.
Key Points:
- New Jersey has raised its drought status to a Drought Warning, allowing stricter management of water resources.
- Residents are urged to conserve water as the state faces historically low precipitation and high temperatures.
- Strict fire restrictions are in place, banning open fires statewide to prevent wildfires.
- New Jersey has experienced a significant increase in wildfires this year, attributed to climate-driven dry conditions.
Drought Warning Explained
The goal of a Drought Warning is to preserve and balance available water supplies in an effort to avert more serious water shortages in the future.
The Administrative Order designating Drought Warning status comes a day after the DEP held a hearing to update water suppliers and the public on water supply conditions, receive their input, and assess all available water supply management options. The state last entered Drought Warning status in October 2016, which persisted in some parts of the state until August 2017. The Administrative Order establishes a formal process for the DEP to work with water suppliers in affected regions to ensure no single water supplier or region faces a significant shortfall if dry weather and high customer demand continue. In consideration and preparation for Drought Warning status, DEP has been consulting with water suppliers to assess conditions, ensure they are fully aware of the situation, and that they are able to work cooperatively with the DEP.
Water Conservation Guidance
The public is strongly encouraged to follow these tips to reduce water use:
- At this time of year, it is appropriate to let lawns go dormant for the season.
- Winterize, and shut off irrigation systems as soon as possible.
- Only use a watering can to water flowers and shrubs or allow them to go dormant for the season.
- Use a broom to sweep the sidewalk, rather than a hose.
- Use a commercial car wash that recycles water, as washing your car at home typically results in more water use.
- To save water at home, fix leaky faucets and pipes. Consider replacing your toilet with a low-flow version; this can save around 11,000 gallons per year.
- Upgrade your showerhead to low-flow versions, which can save some 7,700 gallons per year.
- Upgrade your faucets or install faucet aerators; this can save some 16,000 gallons per year.
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