From Harlem To Hollis Faces Drought Warning: What You Need To Know

November 18, 2024

As the Big Apple grapples with historic dry conditions, city officials take action and urge residents to conserve water.

A Parched Metropolis

New York City has officially entered a drought warning, the second of three levels of water conservation declarations. This comes after the city experienced its driest October in over 150 years, with a mere 0.01 inches of rain falling in Central Park

The drought warning today affects not only the five boroughs but also extends to several surrounding counties says Notify NYC.

City’s Response to the Crisis

Mayor Eric Adams has taken decisive action in response to the worsening conditions:

  1. Pausing the Delaware Aqueduct repair project to allow for the reopening of four additional reservoirs.
  2. Ordering city agencies to implement water-saving measures immediately.
  3. Banning grilling in parks to reduce fire risks.

What This Means for New Yorkers

While mandatory restrictions are not yet in place, New Yorkers are strongly urged to conserve water. The city’s water supply system is currently at 63% capacity, significantly below the normal 79% for this time of year.

How You Can Help

New Yorkers can play a crucial role in conserving water. Here are some simple yet effective measures:

  • Take shorter showers and avoid unnecessary toilet flushing.
  • Fix leaky faucets and pipes in your home.
  • Run dishwashers and washing machines only when full.
  • Use a broom instead of a hose to clean driveways and sidewalks.
  • Report open fire hydrants and leaks to 311.

Looking Ahead

As the city faces this challenge, officials are closely monitoring the situation.


The next step, if conditions worsen, would be a drought emergency. 

However, with collective effort and conscientious water use, New Yorkers can help mitigate the impact of this drought and potentially avoid more severe measures.

For more information on water conservation tips, visit nyc.gov/savewater or call 311.

Photo credit: HWM.

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