NYC Is in a Drought: Here’s What You Need to Know

Water Conservation Tips for Parents: Mayor Urges Shorter Showers to Save Water Amid NYC Drought — Getty Images

NYC Is in a Drought: Here’s What You Need to Know

There is a drought in NYC! Follow these water conservation tips!

As New Yorkers know all too well, it’s been a while since we’ve had significant rainfall. As a result, we’re now in a drought, and it’s time for all of us to pitch in and help conserve water. While some of the changes may feel like a hassle, and getting your kids and family on board might take some effort, they’re small sacrifices that are crucial for helping our city conserve water.

Earlier this week, Mayor Adams and the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) held a press conference to urge New Yorkers to conserve water. The announcement follows a historically dry October in New York City, which recorded the second-longest dry streak since records began in 1869.

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“October was the driest October on record, which has resulted in minimal inflow to replenish the reservoirs,” said DEP Commissioner Rohit T. Aggarwala. “Because of this, a drought watch has been declared, and we must now take immediate action. All of us who rely on the city’s water supply, including 8.3 million consumers in the city and another 1.5 million upstate, must make concerted efforts to conserve water.”

Mayor Adams urged all New Yorkers to take certain steps, “New Yorkers come together in times of crisis, and right now, amidst the driest spell in recent memory, we need New Yorkers to do just that and conserve as much water as possible.” He and the DEP are encouraging people to take shorter showers, curb toilet flushing, and make other small changes to help conserve water.

Smart Water-Saving Tips for Parents in NYC

Be Mindful of Toilet Flushing
Did you know toilets use nearly 30% of the water in a typical home? Every flush uses 1.6 gallons, and older models can waste even more. Encourage your kids to only flush when they really need to, and be conscious of how often you use it.
Keep Showers Short
Shortening showers by just a few minutes can save 5 to 7 gallons of water per minute. If you’re giving little ones a bath, try filling the tub halfway to save 10 to 15 gallons. Teach kids to “shower smart” and make it a fun challenge to reduce water use.
Turn Off the Tap During Daily Routines
Remind your kids to turn off the tap while brushing teeth, washing hands, or shaving. Faucets use 2 to 3 gallons of water per minute, and every little bit adds up.
Fix Leaky Faucets Quickly
A leaky faucet might seem like no big deal, but it can waste more than 3,000 gallons of water a year. Keep an eye out for leaks around the house and fix them as soon as you can. It’s a simple way to save water and money.
Run the Dishwasher and Washing Machine Only When Full
Only run your dishwasher and washing machine when they’re full, and choose shorter cycles if possible. If you’re washing dishes by hand, turn off the water while scrubbing to save even more.
Install Water-Saving Fixtures
Consider upgrading to low-flow toilets, water-saving showerheads, and faucet aerators. These small changes can make a big difference in how much water you use every day.
Sweep the Driveway Instead of Hosing It Down
Instead of washing off the driveway or sidewalk with a hose, grab a broom. It’s a great way to conserve water and get your kids involved in helping with outdoor chores.
Report Leaking Fire Hydrants & Street Leaks to 311
An open fire hydrant wastes over 1,000 gallons of water per minute—imagine the impact on your neighborhood! If you spot one, report it to 311 to help save water for your family and community.