New Jersey declares drought warning as reservoirs at historic low

NEW JERSEY, US - NOVEMBER 19: The Manasquan Reservoir in Monmouth County, New Jersey, has dropped to a historic low, holding just 49.35% of its capacity as the state faces severe drought conditions and wildfires. As of Nov. 18, the reservoir's water level was 11.73 feet (3.58 m) below its full capacity, with only 2.3 billion gallons of water remaining.The reservoir, which supplies drinking water to 1.2 million people in Monmouth County, is a crucial water source, providing 60% of the drinking water to several local communities. It is also a popular recreational site.The drought has caused wildfires in the region, including a 35-acre fire near the Lakewood Country Club, which was partly contained on Nov. 19. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, South Jersey is experiencing extreme drought conditions.In response to the ongoing drought, New York City declared a drought warning on Monday, Nov. 18, marking the first such warning in 22 years. The declaration follows a shortage of rainfall and declining levels of streamflow and groundwater in the region. Governor Kathy Hochul announced a statewide drought watch, while 15 counties in the state were elevated to drought warning status. These counties include Bronx, Kings, New York, Queens, and Westchester.(Footage by Lokman Vural Elibol /Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)