The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection issued a statewide drought watch on October 1 in response to a prolonged dry period throughout the State. Rainfall across New Jersey has been one inch to six inches below normal over the past 90 days, and below-average precipitation has occurred during 10 of the last 12 months. At the same time, temperatures have remained mostly above average. The Northeast and Coastal North regions are Moderately Dry. Unconfined groundwater across the entire state is rated as Severely Dry.
As outlined in the 2024 New Jersey Statewide Water Supply Plan, New Jersey is experiencing the impacts of climate change on water supplies. With the increased uncertainty posed by these weather patterns, it can become challenging for water supply managers to ensure the availability of water resources during dry periods.
The declaration of a Drought Watch is intended to increase public awareness and appreciation of the stress water supply sources are facing. If conditions do not improve, the state could declare a Drought Warning followed by a Drought Emergency, under which mandatory water use restrictions would become necessary. It is strongly recommended that residents and businesses delay intensive irrigation activities and make adjustments to automated watering or sprinkler systems until conditions improve.
The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) continues to closely monitor current drought indicators, which include precipitation, stream flows, reservoir levels, ground water levels, and water demand. The DEP will continue to inform the public, local governments, and water systems of future actions to mitigate the risk of more severe conditions. Municipalities or water utilities may require additional restrictions depending upon local water supply conditions.
More information about Drought Resources can be found on the DEP’s website.
Contact: Sadayah Q. DuRant-Brown, Legislative Counsel, sdurantbrown@njlm.org, 609-695-3481, x137.