NYC Declares First Drought Warning Since 2002 Amid Historic Dry Conditions. Gov. Hochul Declares Statewide Drought Watch.

New York City declared its first drought warning in 22 years, elevating a drought watch issued earlier this month due to severe dry conditions and a historic rainless streak. Mayor Adams attributed New York City's drought and brush fires to climate change, citing reservoir levels well below normal and ongoing precipitation shortages. Governor Kathy Hochul declared a statewide drought watch, with fifteen counties elevated to warning status. Brush fires and ongoing dry weather have compounded challenges in the region.