Current Drought Conditions
Drought Regions I, IV, V, VI, and VIII are currently in a drought watch status. The rest of the state remains in normal conditions.
A "watch" is the first of four levels of state drought advisories ("watch," "warning," "emergency" and "disaster"). There are no statewide mandatory water use restrictions in place under a drought watch, but residents are strongly encouraged to voluntarily conserve water. Local public water suppliers may require conservation measures, depending upon local needs and conditions.
The drought watch is triggered by the State Drought Index, which reflects precipitation levels, reservoir/lake levels, groundwater levels, and stream flow in nine designated drought regions throughout New York. Each of these indicators is assigned a weighted value based on its significance to various uses in a region.
This Index is intended primarily for guidance to public and private water suppliers and withdrawals. If you are experiencing a water shortage, please contact your local agricultural extension, local health department, or DEC regional office.
