Drought Warnings Issued Across New York State

On September 25, 2025, New York Governor Kathy Hochul, alongside the state Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), announced a drought warning for 12 counties in the Adirondack and Southern Tier regions, while a drought watch was expanded to six counties in the Susquehanna region. The counties under drought warning include Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chemung, Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Hamilton, northern Herkimer, Lewis, Steuben, St. Lawrence, and Warren. The counties added to the drought watch are Broome, Chenango, Cortland, Otsego, Madison, and Tioga. This declaration comes in response to significantly below-normal rainfall, with observed precipitation deficits ranging from two to eight inches across the state.

Drought warning issued to 12 New York countiesDrought warnings issued throughout parts of the Western Adirondacks and Tug Hill regionNorth Country Public RadioWPTZ - Plattsburgh NewsON-AIR SEGMENT: Woodgate Fire Chief Anthony Sege reminds North Country folks to remain extremely cautious with drought warnings issued in select regions

The drought conditions are affecting water supplies, agriculture, and ecosystems. Stream flows and groundwater levels are declining, prompting the DEC to encourage residents, including those with private groundwater wells, to conserve water. Governor Hochul emphasized the importance of voluntary water conservation efforts to mitigate the potential for a more severe water crisis. The DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton stated, “Drought preparedness and prevention requires an active, coordinated effort by all New Yorkers to prevent a water crisis affecting our environment, public health, and economy.”

Drought warnings issued throughout parts of the Western Adirondacks and Tug Hill region

The DEC and the U.S. Geological Survey are collaborating to monitor hydrologic conditions statewide. The state's Drought Management Task Force, which includes various state agencies, is responsible for evaluating drought conditions and coordinating responses. Local governments are encouraged to implement water conservation measures tailored to their specific circumstances. The DEC has also provided resources for farmers to monitor on-farm water supplies and communicate concerns with local emergency management.

Drought warning issued to 12 New York countiesDrought warnings issued throughout parts of the Western Adirondacks and Tug Hill regionWPTZ - Plattsburgh NewsON-AIR SEGMENT: Woodgate Fire Chief Anthony Sege reminds North Country folks to remain extremely cautious with drought warnings issued in select regions

Despite the proactive measures, some critics argue that the state’s response may not be sufficient to address the long-term implications of drought. Concerns have been raised about the potential impact on aquatic ecosystems, as reduced stream flows can harm aquatic life and contribute to harmful algae blooms. Fire Chief Anthony Sege from Woodgate highlighted the heightened risk of wildfires due to the dry conditions, urging residents to remain cautious.

Drought warning issued to 12 New York counties

In her announcement, Governor Hochul stated, “The less-than-normal amounts of rain have led to dry conditions for many counties in New York, resulting in the Adirondacks and Southern Tier counties being elevated to drought warning status.” DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton reiterated the need for coordinated efforts, emphasizing that “reducing outdoor water use and checking for leaks in homes and businesses can go a long way in conserving water.”

Drought warning issued to 12 New York countiesDrought warnings issued throughout parts of the Western Adirondacks and Tug Hill regionWPTZ - Plattsburgh NewsNorth Country Public Radio

• “Drought preparedness and prevention requires an active, coordinated effort by all New Yorkers to prevent a water crisis affecting our environment, public health, and economy.” — Amanda Lefton, DEC Commissioner

Drought warnings issued throughout parts of the Western Adirondacks and Tug Hill region

• “The less-than-normal amounts of rain have led to dry conditions for many counties in New York, resulting in the Adirondacks and Southern Tier counties being elevated to drought warning status and Susquehanna counties elevated to drought watch,” — Kathy Hochul, Governor of New York

Drought warning issued to 12 New York counties

As New York State continues to monitor the situation, residents are encouraged to adopt water conservation practices, such as watering lawns only when necessary and fixing leaks. The DEC has provided guidelines for water conservation, which can be accessed through their website. The ongoing situation will be closely watched, with updates expected as conditions evolve.

Drought warning issued to 12 New York counties