New Jersey residents have been asked to conserve water after another drought warning was issued in the state.
What is happening?
Gov. Phil Murphy and the state Department of Environmental Protection issued a drought warning in December, according to Word. NorthJersey.com. The previous drought warning had expired just six months before June.
Dry conditions have been a problem in New Jersey for the past two years, according to NorthJersey.com. A climate report showed the state recorded its second-lowest average rainfall on record between fall 2024 and early winter 2025.
Groundwater levels, DEP said It is classified as extremely dry Due to lack of rainfall. There are no mandatory restrictions, but officials urged residents to be careful about their water use.
In its weekly update dated Jan. 16, DEP said He said New Jersey remains under a statewide drought warning.
Why are droughts important?
Human activities that contribute to air pollution have increased the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, including droughts. According to Center for Climate and Energy SolutionsRising global temperatures enhance evaporation, leading to drought conditions and reduced water supplies.
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Drought can increase the risk of wildfires due to water shortages and drier conditions Earth.org. that Annual report It found that wildfires burned more than 8.9 million acres in the United States in 2024.
Crop failure and pasture losses They also occur during droughts, which can have serious economic consequences, according to the National Integrated Drought Information System. NASA scientists found that droughts and floods are responsible More than 20% of economic losses Due to the harsh weather in the United States
What is being done to alleviate drought?
per National Center for Drought MitigationUnderstanding droughts and the environment is the first step to mitigating the problem. Exploration Critical climate issues Learning how to reduce your carbon footprint can help slow the rise in temperatures that contribute to drought conditions.
Meanwhile, officials in New Jersey provided water conservation tips for residents to follow during the drought warning. according to NorthJersey.comHomeowners can fix leaky faucets and shut off irrigation systems to keep water use down.
Officials also suggested that homeowners Restore their yards With native plants to save water. Native plants require less water than other plants. Plus, it’s better for pollinators, too.
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