Drought Information
The Division of Water Supply and Geoscience within the Department of Environmental Protection, regularly monitors various water supply conditions within the state based on the different Water Supply Regions.
It should be noted that there are different types of droughts which affect sectors differently (e.g. meteorological, agricultural), this page focuses on water supply drought.
With below average precipitation conditions remaining the dominant weather pattern statewide, New Jersey remains in drought warning. The public is strongly urged to continue voluntary water conservation practices.
NJ Rainfall totals this week
Between 0.2 and 0.8 inches of rain were observed between last week’s Drinking Water Supply Indicators (1/26/24) and this week’s (2/2/25).
NJDEP continues to monitor the situation closely, updating the indicators weekly, and keeping the public informed as conditions evolve.
Next Update: 2/12/25-2/13/25
Winter Water Conservation Guidance
- Install low-flow showerheads and toilets.
- When replacing appliances, choose water efficient models.
- Only run your dishwasher and washing machine when they are full.
- Compost your vegetable food waste instead of using the garbage disposal.
- As you plan your spring and summer gardens, plan for native plants.
- When you’re buying grass seed, choose drought-tolerant grasses such as fine-leaf fescues.
- Keep your outdoor jacuzzi or spa covered to prevent evaporation.
- Insulate exposed outdoor pipes and hose bibs.
- Changing temperatures can cause pipes to break, check for leaks after any thaws.
- Learn the locations of your homes water valves to be able to cut off water during emergencies like a burst pipe.
Water Supply Status and Actions
Routine monitoring of water supply and meteorological indicators. All conditions normal.
Focus placed on voluntary reductions in demand through increased public awareness.

DEP Commissioner issues order urging public to voluntarily use water sparingly; DEP may issue orders to purveyors to manage supplies in most affected regions.
Governor orders mandatory restrictions on certain uses of water, usually phased in as conditions deteriorate.
The water supply conditions aid the Department in declaring the regions as being within one of the four stages of water supply drought, Normal, Drought Watch, Drought Warning, and Drought Emergency.