According to a Public Information Briefing on November 18, 2024, New York City has been elevated to a drought warning due to ongoing dry weather and significant precipitation shortages.
This announcement was made by FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker, Mayor Eric Adams, and public safety officials.
The drought warning follows a previously issued drought watch and marks the second of three water conservation levels the city may declare.
Mayor Eric Adams stated: “As our city and watershed continues to experience significant precipitation shortages, I’m upgrading our drought watch to a drought warning, pausing our Delaware Aqueduct repair project, and ordering our agencies to immediately implement water-saving measures.”
The Mayor emphasized the need for residents to conserve water to prepare for the upcoming summer.
The last time New York City issued a drought warning was in 2002.
Fire Commissioner Robert S. Tucker highlighted the increased risk of brush fires, which have surged due to dry vegetation and windy conditions.
Over the past two weeks, New York City has experienced a historic number of such fires, with more than 300 incidents reported in October and November alone.
“With a drought warning now in place, we are once again urging New Yorkers to do their part, conserve water, and take the necessary steps to reduce the chances of a brush fire occurring during this extraordinarily dry period,” said Fire Commissioner Tucker.
He also acknowledged the public’s role in reporting fires and encouraged vigilance.
The Commissioner stressed that water conservation would enable the FDNY to maintain its capacity to respond effectively to emergencies.
In response to the growing threat of brush fires, the FDNY has established its first-ever Brush Fire Task Force.
This specialized group comprises fire marshals, fire protection inspectors, and tactical drone units.
Its mission includes conducting investigations into brush fires to determine their causes and origins.
“By creating this task force, we are taking real action to prevent brush fires from occurring,” Commissioner Tucker stated.
He also highlighted safety protocols for firefighters and efforts to reduce future fire risks.
The task force will operate across all five boroughs, emphasizing prevention and safety amid the current drought conditions.
As part of the drought warning measures, Mayor Adams has directed city agencies to adopt water-saving practices.
Residents are also encouraged to conserve water in daily activities to help maintain essential services and recreational resources such as parks and pools.
Mayor Adams noted: “We need New Yorkers to continue to save water, too, so we can water our parks and fill our pools this coming summer.
“New Yorkers always look out for each other. We are resilient, and we will get through this together.”
Public safety officials have also issued safety tips to reduce the likelihood of brush fires.
New York City officials announced a drought warning on November 18, 2024, due to extended dry weather and low precipitation.
This second-tier declaration follows a drought watch issued earlier.
FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker emphasized the risks of brush fires, which have surged in recent weeks.
To address this threat, the FDNY has formed a specialized Brush Fire Task Force.
Mayor Eric Adams urged water conservation, highlighting the need to preserve resources for essential services and summer activities.
Over 300 brush fires have been reported since October, further underscoring the need for vigilance.
