Much of Western and Central New York declared to be in a severe drought
Due to an abnormal lack of rainfall this summer, NYS Department of Environment Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos issued a drought watch for the July 15. Currently, much of the Western and Central New York region has been declared to be facing a Severe Drought. According to the U.S Drought Portal, droughts affected 102.7 million people in the United States between July 20-26.
There are many ways that residents can save water to lessen the impact of the drought. The Red Cross recommends that individuals and families prepare for droughts by:
Indoor Water Conservation Tips:
- Repair dripping faucets.
- Make sure homes are leak-free.
- Take shorter showers.
- Don’t let the water run while brushing teeth, or shaving.
- Operate dishwashers only when they are full using “light wash” feature.
- Start a compost pile as an alternate way to dispose of food waste.
- Only operate laundry machines when they are full, or set the water level according to the size of your load.
- When purchasing a new appliance, choose one that is energy and water efficient.
Outdoor Water Conservation Tips:
- Reuse excess water to water lawn and garden.
- Keep lawn and garden watering to a minimum and water in short sessions.
- Use mulch to retain moisture in the soil.
- Plant native and/or drought-tolerant grasses, ground covers, shrubs, and trees.
- Cover pools and spas when not in use to reduce evaporation of water.
- If you have a well at home, check your pump periodically. If the pump turns on and off while water is not being used, you have a leak.
Be Informed:
- Contact your local water authority or utility district, or your local emergency management agency for information specific to your community.
- Participate in public conservation meetings
- Follow water conservation and water shortage rules. You’re included in the restrictions even if your water comes from a private well.
For more information on drought preparedness, visit www.redcross.org.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross
shelters,
feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian
aid; and
supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.