As of November 2, 2024, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has issued a Drought Watch for 15 New York counties: Bronx, Delaware, Dutchess, Greene, Kings, New York, Orange, Putnam, Queens, Richmond, Rockland, Schoharie, Sullivan, Ulster, and Westchester. New York City also filed a drought watch due to the lack of precipitation, forcing agencies to update their water conservation plans. Suffolk County’s water demand has risen to record-breaking levels, typically seen only during peak summer months.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, this has been the second warmest and second-driest October on record for the U.S. The drastic temperature fluctuation is due to the lack of moisture in the air. Since there has been no rainfall since Sept. 2024, New York is suffering from low stream flow and declining groundwater levels.
Unfortunately, dry climates also come with other concerns.
Because of the drought weather conditions and the dry leaves on the ground, brush fires can start with the slightest spark. Discarded cigarette butts, campfires, and barbecues can all potentially cause a fire in these hazardous conditions. Careless use of fire pits or bug candles may easily lead to uncontrollable destruction. If a fire is created outdoors, it is crucial to make sure the fire is totally extinguished before leaving it.
People should be mindful of the destruction of wildfires in the area. On Saturday, November 9, firefighters from 18 departments worked to extinguish a brush fire in Baiting Hollow that burned 20 acres of woodlands. Firefighters began putting out the fire around 8:45 a.m., only to wholly extinguish the fire at 10:15 a.m. Fires, especially in dry climates, spread fast and are much harder to put out when there is a lack of precipitation. Now more than ever, it is essential to pay attention to how we treat the environment, as the beauty of the flames can quickly turn deadly and destructive with neglect and irresponsibility.
