BUFFALO, N.Y. — Recent rains have not been enough to pull 21 New York State counties out of a drought watch issued July 29.
Gov. Kathy Hochul urged the Department of Environmental Conservation to issue the drought warning after consulting with the State Drought Management Task Force and Federal Partner Agencies.
The state is encouraging residents areas under a warning, particularly those dependent on private groundwater wells, to cut back on water usage in an effort to conserve water when possible during.
Those counties specifically under watch are:
Allegany, Cattaraugus, Cayuga, Chautauqua, Chemung, Erie, Genesee, Livingston, Monroe, Niagara, Onondaga, Orleans, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Suffolk, Tompkins, Wyoming, and Yates.
Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos said, "Conserving water is important all year long, but particularly during extended dry periods like we are experiencing now. DEC will continue to monitor water conditions as the summer continues and work with our partners to help address the short-term water issues leading to this watch and the longer-term impacts of climate change on our everyday lives."
Although there has not been many reports of public water supply challenges because of dry conditions, low precipitation and other circumstances have prompted the need for action to ensure adequate public water supplies for the future.
Along with homeowners, local public water suppliers are encouraged to evaluate their situation and promote voluntary conservation as well as take actions needed to manage risks.
The National Weather Service outlook predicts higher than normal temperatures and continued low precipitation.
People are also urged to be extra careful with fire and outdoor flames as the ground tends to be extra dry along with the drought.
The Department of Environmental Conservation instructs homeowners to protect water resources by voluntarily reducing outdoor water use and following these tips:
• Water lawns only when necessary, choose watering methods that avoid waste, and water in the early morning to reduce evaporation and maximize soil hydration;
• Reuse water collected in rain barrels, dehumidifiers, or air conditioners to water plants;
• Raise lawn mower cutting heights. Longer grass is healthier with stronger roots and needs less water;
• Use a broom, not a hose, to clean driveways and sidewalks; and
• Fix leaking pipes, hoses, and faucets.
For more water saving tips, and information on the drought people can visit DEC's webpage.
