State Elevates Drought Watch Status to Drought Warning. Directive Activates DEP Authority to Closely Manage Water Supplies; Public Strongly Urged to Reduce Water Use. TRENTON – As New Jersey continues to experience historically low precipitation, above-average temperatures, and deteriorating water-supply conditions, Governor Phil Murphy and DEP Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette today announced the State is declaring a Drought Warning and gave an update on the significant increase in wildfires over last year. As New Jersey enters the next stage in severity of water-storage conditions, officials strongly encouraged the public to reduce water use during a virtual press conference.