New York City Mayor Eric Adams and Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Commissioner Rohit T. Aggarwala announced a citywide drought watch due to a historic lack of precipitation, urging the public to conserve water.

This announcement follows a notably dry October, marking the second-longest rainless streak in the city’s history.

“New Yorkers come together in times of crisis, and right now, amidst the dryest spell in recent memory, we need New Yorkers to do just that and conserve as much water as possible,” said Mayor Adams.

Also Read: Council Member Farias boosts community wellness with $2,000 Health bucks initiative

“We’re going to do our part as a city as well, which is why I’m ordering our city agencies to update their water conservation plans and prepare to implement them imminently. By starting to save water now, we’re doing everything we can to make sure that we can water our parks and fill our pools come summer, and to stave off a more serious drought emergency.”

Camille Joseph Varlack, Chief of Staff and Extreme Weather Coordinator, added, “We encourage all New Yorkers to take this drought watch seriously and conserve water where you can. While water conservation is always essential, it is particularly crucial during extended dry periods, such as those experienced in New York state throughout this fall.”

“Time and again, New Yorkers’ resiliency shines through the hardest of days. Now, we ask all New Yorkers to step up and do their part to conserve water during this historically dry season,” stated Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “When every New Yorker makes even small changes, like turning off the tap when washing hands, brushing teeth, and doing dishes, we save millions of gallons by the minute.”

DEP Commissioner Aggarwala remarked, “October was the driest October on record, which has resulted in minimal inflow to replenish the reservoirs. Because of this, a drought watch has been declared, and we must now take immediate action.”

The drought watch represents the first of three levels of water conservation declarations. As conditions evolve, further restrictions may be implemented if required.

Mayor Adams emphasized the importance of individual efforts in water conservation, providing tips such as reporting open fire hydrants, taking shorter showers, and fixing leaks. “By taking small but meaningful steps… we can make a huge impact,” he noted.

As the city navigates this dry season, the collaboration between agencies and residents will be vital to preserving one of New York’s most precious resources: water.