DELHI, N.Y. (WBNG) — Delaware County is now under a drought warning after the state went weeks without significant precipitation.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced the measure Monday afternoon. The announcement comes after the county issued a ban on burning on October 25.

Additionally, the Delaware Aqueduct project was suspended due to the warning.

Governor Hochul also announced that 14 additional counties in New York City and the Hudson Valley were under drought watch and the rest of New York State was under drought watch.

New York State is now encouraging residents in affected counties, especially those who rely on private groundwater wells, to conserve water as much as possible in the coming weeks.

Homeowners are now encouraged to save water by:

• Reuse water collected in rain barrels, dehumidifiers or air conditioners to water plants.
• Use a broom, not a hose, to clean driveways and sidewalks
• Repair leaks in pipes, fixtures, toilets, pipes and faucets
• Wash only full loads of dishes and laundry
• Take shorter showers or partially fill the bathtub
• Install water-saving plumbing fixtures
• Do not run the tap to make the water hot or cold
• Wash cars less frequently

On November 12, Governor Hochul issued a statewide burn ban due to dry conditions affecting much of New York State.

The ban is expected to be in effect until November 30.

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