The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has announced that 21 counties have been downgraded from Drought Warning to Drought Watch after several weeks of consistent rainfall. The affected counties include Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Chemung, Clinton, Erie, Essex, Franklin, Genesee, Hamilton, northern Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Monroe, Niagara, Orleans, Oswego, St. Lawrence, Steuben, Warren, and Wayne. In total, 56 counties across New York remain under a drought watch.
“Thankfully, rain is providing communities across the state with some needed relief, resulting in downgrading from warning to watch in the Adirondacks, Southern Tier, and Great Lakes-area counties,” DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton said. “While recent rainfall improved dry conditions for many counties in New York, drought watch remains in effect for much of the State and New Yorkers are asked to continue water conservation efforts. DEC experts continue to monitor conditions and coordinate closely with the Drought Management Task Force to issue recommendations that help protect our water supplies.”
Although precipitation over the past three months has increased compared to previous periods this year, it is still below average statewide. Deficits range from two to seven inches depending on location. Stream flows and groundwater levels are slowly recovering. The National Weather Service forecasts normal or slightly above-normal precipitation patterns for the next month.
New York uses a four-tier advisory system for droughts: watch, warning, emergency and disaster. While a drought watch does not impose mandatory statewide restrictions on water use at this time, residents are strongly encouraged to voluntarily conserve water. Local suppliers may require additional measures based on specific needs.
Residents are advised to reduce outdoor water usage and take steps such as monitoring private wells and checking for leaks or mechanical issues if they experience low water levels. Property owners who rely on private groundwater wells should follow recommended conservation practices to avoid further strain during ongoing dry conditions.
The DEC works alongside partners like the U.S. Geological Survey to assess hydrologic data throughout the state and supports local governments in implementing appropriate conservation strategies tailored to local circumstances.
Farmers are encouraged to regularly monitor their on-farm water supplies and report any concerns to county emergency management offices or Soil and Water Conservation Districts. Additional support is available through organizations such as Cornell Cooperative Extension Disaster Education Network and the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets.
If private wells run dry or experience problems during drought periods, property owners can report these issues using the Dry Water Well Reporting Form provided by DEC or consult with registered well contractors about solutions ranging from cleaning existing wells to drilling new ones.
For more information about current drought status or guidance on conserving water resources in New York State:
– Visit DEC’s Water Use and Conservation webpage.
– Access public drinking water system contacts via Know Your NY Water website.
– Review annual reports from local water systems for further tips on preparedness.
The Drought Management Task Force—comprised of representatives from several state agencies including DEC—continues monitoring conditions statewide and coordinating efforts aimed at reducing impacts on communities and industries dependent on reliable water supplies.
