October 2024 may end up being the driest month ever recorded in New Jersey. Many parts of the state have yet to receive any rain, and forecasts show little chance of wet weather in the near future.
In response to the ongoing dry spell, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) issued a statewide drought watch on Thursday—the first since one that lasted from August to December 2022.
The primary goal of the drought watch is to raise public awareness about the state’s diminishing water resources and encourage voluntary water conservation efforts.
“While conserving water is always important, it becomes especially critical during extended dry periods like the one we’ve seen throughout the summer and into early fall,” said NJDEP Commissioner Shawn LaTourette. “Taking voluntary conservation measures now can help prevent stricter water use restrictions down the road.”
If the dry weather continues, the NJDEP warned that mandatory water restrictions could be introduced.
The latest U.S. Drought Monitor map shows that drought conditions have affected the entire state. Currently, all of New Jersey is classified as at least “abnormally dry,” and roughly 60% of the state is experiencing “moderate drought.” About 12% of the state—covering significant portions of Atlantic, Burlington, and Ocean counties—is now in a “severe drought” (D2) category.
“Conditions are extremely dry and brittle,” said Dave Robinson, a Rutgers University climatologist. “New Jersey really needs a widespread, soaking rain.”
Despite the prolonged dryness, the NJDEP’s most recent update on Oct. 6 still lists the state’s water supply status as “normal” across all regions.
New Jersey has been experiencing a shortage of rainfall since early August. September 2024 was the third driest September on record, with data going back 130 years, and the lack of rain has persisted into October.
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.