As Delaware approaches a month without any rainfall, Gov. John Carney on Friday issued a drought watch and encouraged residents to voluntarily reduce nonessential water use.
“Across Delaware, unusually low levels of precipitation and soil moisture indicate a need for a statewide drought watch,” the governor’s office said in a statement. “Although major water reservoirs in Northern New Castle County remain within normal ranges, the low stream flows in that area warrant heightened concern as it is those streams that are needed to refill the reservoirs. Public water suppliers are asking residents to reduce their water use whenever possible.”
Delawareans are advised to water lawns and plants “sparingly and conservatively” and use non-drinkable water to do so when possible.
A mandatory burn ban prohibits bonfires, controlled burning (including always prohibited burning of leaves and yard waste), agricultural burning, fires for land clearing, and fires for demolition and removal of hazards. The state fire marshal also urges residents to properly dispose of cigarettes and matches and avoid parking vehicles on or near dry leaves and grass to prevent unintentional fires.