The New York state Department of Environmental Conservation Wednesday announced that 21 counties moved from drought warning to drought watch due to several weeks of consistent rainfall and improving levels of streamflow and ground water. Counties moved to drought include Cattaraugus, Chautauqua and Erie. There are now 56 counties in drought watch across New York State.

“Thankfully, rain is providing communities across the state with some needed relief, resulting in downgrading from warning to watch in the Adirondacks, Southern Tier, and Great Lakes-area counties,” DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton said. “While recent rainfall improved dry conditions for many counties in New York, drought watch remains in effect for much of the State and New Yorkers are asked to continue water conservation efforts. DEC experts continue to monitor conditions and coordinate closely with the Drought Management Task Force to issue recommendations that help protect our water supplies.”

Observed precipitation over the past 90 days has improved but remains less than normal across virtually the entire state. Observed precipitation deficits across the state range from two to seven inches. Stream flows and groundwater levels are gradually improving. The National Weather Service’s near-term forecast suggests that normal or even slightly wet precipitation patterns can be expected over the next month.

There are four levels of State drought advisories: watch, warning, emergency, and disaster. Under a drought watch, there are no statewide mandatory water use restrictions in place, but residents are strongly encouraged to voluntarily conserve water. Local public water suppliers may require conservation measures, depending upon local needs and conditions.

New Yorkers are urged to continue conserving water as 56 counties are in drought watch. Property owners in affected counties, particularly those dependent on private groundwater wells, are encouraged to help prevent worsening conditions during the coming weeks by following tips to reduce water use whenever possible.

To protect water resources, New Yorkers are encouraged to voluntarily reduce outdoor water use. For water saving tips, visit DEC’s Water Use and Conservation webpage. For more information about drought in New York, visit DEC’s website.