We know New Jersey is under a drought warning due to unusually low precipitation, above-average temperatures, and deteriorating water supply conditions. But what does this mean for residents as far as restrictions and what to expect?
A photo of conditions at the Manasquan Reservoir in Monmouth County has been circulating, showing the difference in water conditions. The NJ Department of Environmental Protection urges conserving water by taking shorter showers, turning off the faucet while brushing your teeth, running the washing machine or dishwasher only when they are full (or less frequently), and not running sprinklers (our lawns are still green despite it being November!).
There have been two major fires in NJ – the Jennings Creek Fire on the border of Passaic County in NJ and Orange County in NY; and near Stump Tavern Road in Jackson – that have caused massive damage and have injured first responders. Dariel Vasquez, an 18-year-old serving as a Parks and Recreation Aid with the New York State Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Department, tragically died while battling the fires in Sterling Forest.
Because of the extremely dry weather, Stage 3 fire restrictions remain in effect. All open fires are prohibited, except those in elevated stoves using propane, natural gas or electricity; wood, charcoal and kerosene torches are not allowed, according to the DEP. That means you can’t build a firepit in your backyard, and have to be very careful if you’re out camping this time of year. Limit any manmade fires but make sure everything is fully extinguished. Anything from a lit cigarette to sparks from tools to burning yard waste to gunfire can cause a spark which in turn can lead to a fire. Be careful when using a lawnmower or leaf blower, and absolutely don’t set off fireworks. The wind will make the spread of fire worse.
There is also something called a dry thunderstorm, which is when the rain evaporates before hitting the ground, but lightning still strikes.
The National Weather Service announced elevated weather conditions for northeast New Jersey and parts of New York, which means that the air quality has been affected by wildfires in the state. If you see or smell smoke, try to limit your time outdoors, especially with your pets.
You may also come across wildlife that is looking for water sources. Bears, timber rattlesnakes and blue-spotted salamanders are some of NJ’s endangered animals, so be careful when they’re near, and report rare wildlife sightings or animals on the roadway to NJ Fish & Wildlife via the NJ Wildlife Tracker.
Forecasters are currently predicting a shower next Thursday, November 21, which is the earliest sign of rain.
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