Will The Drought Warning Impact Cinnaminson's Running Water: What To Know

CINNAMINSON, NJ — A statewide drought warning was issued Wednesday as New Jersey endures historically dry weather, frequent wildfires and diminishing water supplies.

A drought warning allows state environmental officials to assume greater control of New Jersey's water suppliers and redirect water to the most-affected regions.

The public is strongly urged to conserve water.

• Read more: Drought Warning In Fire-Ravaged NJ, Murphy Urges Water Conservation

"New Jersey is experiencing unprecedented weather conditions — as a result of climate change — that require us to take these precautionary measures now," said Gov. Phil Murphy. "It can be challenging to adjust our daily habits, but it is imperative that we all work together, heed the guidance to conserve water, and use the utmost caution outdoors to reduce the risk of wildfire as dry conditions continue statewide."

Here's what Cinnaminson residents should know:

Drought Warnings, Watches And Emergencies

With the warning issued, New Jersey entered the second of three possible stages in drought management:

1. Drought watch: The state focuses on public awareness, urging residents and businesses to voluntarily conserve water. New Jersey entered a drought watch in mid-October.
2. Drought warning: New Jersey's environmental commissioner can issue orders to water suppliers. Calls for the public to conserve water become more urgent but remain voluntary.
3. Drought emergency: The governor orders restrictions on certain uses of water. Restrictions are typically phased as conditions deteriorate.

Will This Impact Water Service?

State officials aren't anticipating major disruptions for residents at this time. But given the delicate situation, that could change.

The state issued a drought warning in an effort to avert more-serious water shortages in the future. That requires greater collaboration between the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and purveyors, along with the public taking actions to use less water.

New Jersey American Water, Cinnaminson's water provider, doesn't anticipate any disruptions for customers at this time, the company said Wednesday. Currently, the company is working to shift between water sources so that service continues as normal.

However, NJ American Water urged customers to limit "non-essential" water use. Customers can access their MyWater account to see how much they're using.

Water-Conservation Tips

The state DEP urged the public to take the following steps:

• Take 5-minute showers.
• Only run a load of laundry or dishes when full.
• Turn off the water when brushing teeth.
• At this time of year, it is appropriate to let lawns go dormant for the season.
• Winterize, and shut off irrigation systems as soon as possible.
• Only use a watering can to water flowers and shrubs, or allow them to go dormant for the season.
• Use a broom to sweep the sidewalk, rather than a hose.
• Use a commercial car wash that recycles water, as washing your car at home typically results in more water use.
• To save water at home, fix leaky faucets and pipes. Consider replacing your toilet with a low-flow version; this can save around 11,000 gallons per year.
• Upgrade your showerhead to low-flow versions, which can save some 7,700 gallons per year.
• Upgrade your faucets or install faucet aerators; this can save some 16,000 gallons per year.