Moderate drought expands in Central New Jersey and in regions in Northern New Jersey

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Current drought outlook shows a moderate drought is occurring in Mercer County and surrounding areas in southern Hunterdon and northern Burlington counties. There is also a moderate drought for communities along the Passaic River Valley in Northern New Jersey and the northern areas of Warren County. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, impacts in regions under a MODERATE DROUGHT typically experience:

• Honey production declines
• Irrigation use increases; hay and grain yields are lower than normal
• Trees and landscaping are stressed; fish are stressed
• Voluntary water conservation is requested; reservoir and lake levels are below normal capacity
• Wildfires and ground fires increase

With the recent rain being abrupt and intense, it is difficult for the ground to absorb the water that runs off. We anticipate a continuation of dry weather conditions that extend into the weekend and next week. Chances for rain increase on Monday, but the state needs steady lighter rain that occurs at a lower intensity so that the ground can absorb it much easier. MORE: New Jersey's forecast "