Why NJ’s Statewide Drought Warning Remains in Effect Despite Recent Heavy Rainfall
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
RIDGEWOOD, NJ — Even with frequent summer downpours across North Jersey, water conservation remains a top priority. Ridgewood Water is reminding residents that despite significant rainfall throughout July and August 2026, New Jersey remains under a statewide drought warning.
As summer winds down and September begins, local officials stress that continued conservation is vital for long-term water supply recovery.
Recapping Summer 2026 Rainfall Trends
While the drought warning stays in place, New Jersey did experience intense, localized precipitation events over the summer:
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July Rainfall: The highest single-hour rainfall hit 3.21 inches at Upper Deerfield on July 6. Multiple severe storms throughout July drove precipitation totals above monthly averages.
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August Rainfall: North Jersey endured several heavy storm systems that caused localized flooding. While official monthly totals are being finalized, the overall trend pointed toward continued heavy rainfall.
Despite these frequent storms, groundwater reserves and reservoirs require sustained recovery, which is why state and local water guidelines remain strictly enforced.
Ridgewood Water Mandatory Two-Day Lawn Watering Schedule
Residents are required to adhere to the designated two-day irrigation schedule to prevent unnecessary water strain:
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Odd-Numbered Addresses: Watering permitted on Tuesdays and Saturdays
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Even-Numbered Addresses: Watering permitted on Wednesdays and Sundays
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No Automatic Lawn Watering: Prohibited on Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays
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Approved Irrigation Hours: Automatic systems may only run between 3:00 AM and 7:00 AM
Stop Hidden Household Leaks: The Toilet Test
Outdoors isn’t the only place water is wasted. Did you know a single leaking toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day?
How to Perform a Simple DIY Dye Test:
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Place a few drops of food coloring into your toilet tank.
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Wait 10 to 15 minutes without flushing.
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Check the bowl. If color appears in the bowl before flushing, your toilet has a leak that needs immediate repair.
To help residents identify water waste, free leak-detection tablets are available directly from Ridgewood Water. Residents can request a free packet by calling 201-670-5520.
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Thats bullshit as usual. I fly over the wanaque resevor and its full (vs years past when it wasnt)