Mercer Times

As New Jersey grapples with historically low precipitation and rising temperatures, Governor Phil Murphy and DEP Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette have declared a Drought Warning for the state. This announcement comes amid a significant increase in wildfires, with the New Jersey Forest Fire Service responding to 537 incidents since early October—a dramatic rise compared to last year.

The state's All-Hazards Incident Management Team has been deployed to assist operations as firefighters tackle blazes across the region. The Jennings Creek wildfire recently claimed the life of Dariel Vasquez, a New York State parks system employee.

To address these challenges, mandatory statewide Stage 3 fire restrictions are in place, prohibiting all fires unless contained in an elevated stove using propane, natural gas, or electricity. Commissioner LaTourette signed an Administrative Order authorizing the Drought Warning designation, allowing closer management of water systems through measures like directing water transfers and controlling reservoir releases.

Governor Murphy emphasized the need for precautionary measures due to "unprecedented weather conditions—as a result of climate change." He urged residents to conserve water and exercise caution outdoors. Commissioner LaTourette highlighted that "climate change is driving our record low precipitation and above-average temperature," affecting streamflow and groundwater levels.

The Drought Warning aims to preserve water supplies and prevent future shortages. The DEP has been consulting with water suppliers to ensure cooperation and effective management during this period.

New Jersey's drought conditions reflect broader trends affecting over half of the United States, according to the National Drought Mitigation Center’s U.S. Drought Monitor. Specific indicators such as reservoir levels and stream flows are used by the DEP to assess impacts on water supplies.

For more information on state water supply status and conservation tips, visit njdrought.org or dep.nj.gov/conserve-water/.