Drought watch declared in NYC as October sees record dry spell

NEW YORK (PIX11) – New York City is under a drought watch as October experienced the second-longest dry spell in the city's recorded history, Mayor Eric Adams announced Saturday.

If the lack of rain continues, water suppliers could issue conservation measures. City officials are urging residents to make every drop of water count, as their contribution is vital.

New Yorkers can save water by fixing leaky faucets, taking shorter showers, only running a dishwasher when it's full, not flushing toilets unnecessarily, or reporting open fire hydrants and street leaks to 311.

If the drought escalates, the city can issue a warning or emergency. New York City uses 1.1 billion gallons of water a day on average, according to city officials.