ALBANY – With this year being one of the worst drought years in recorded history for Western New York, Governor Andrew Cuomo has directed the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to issue a heightened Drought Warning for the region.
On Wednesday the DEC issued a Drought Warning for several areas of Western New York, including Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, Erie, and Allegany Counties.
The warning was issued after the DEC consulted with experts from the State Drought Management Task Force and Federal technical agencies.
The remainder of the State remains under a previously declared Drought Watch.
A “warning” is the second of four levels of state drought advisories (“watch,” “warning,” “emergency” and “disaster”).
There are no statewide mandatory water use restrictions in place under a drought watch or warning but citizens are strongly encouraged to voluntarily conserve water. Local public water suppliers may impose water use restrictions depending upon local needs and conditions.
For tips on water conservation, visit the DEC’s webpage.
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