Statewide Drought Watch Once Again in Effect

After moving out of Drought Watch earlier this year, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has once again declared a statewide Drought Watch. 

This comes less than three months after the lifting of a statewide Drought Warning that was issued last fall. 

According to Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette: “

“Over the past year, New Jersey has experienced extreme weather variability that is consistent with a changing climate.  Last fall and winter were among the driest on record, leading to a Drought Warning in November that was followed by a very wet May and even severe flash flooding in parts of the state in July. But with the return of prolonged dry conditions over the latter part of this summer and early fall, water supplies are showing signs of stress again.”

Below average rainfall has once again become the dominant weather pattern, affecting streamflow, groundwater, and water supply reservoirs.  All New Jerseyans are requested to follow water conservation practices and to use water wisely, particularly when using water outdoors.

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.

Rainfall Variability 2024 – 2025

See https://climate.rutgers.edu/stateclim_v1/nclimdiv/ for full data table.

The DEP provides the following guidance for conserving water this fall: