McKee issues statewide drought advisory

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Gov. Dan McKee issued a drought advisory for all of Rhode Island Wednesday.

The advisory announcement was advised by the recommended by the state’s Drought Steering Committee, and is the first of four progressive drought declarations, followed by watch, warning, and emergency.

McKee’s office said that precipitation, groundwater, and stream flow levels, met the drought advisory criteria in northern Rhode Island, while dry conditions in the northwest drought region, declining stream flows and groundwater levels in the remaining drought regions across the state, and the probability that dry conditions would return in early December led to the decision.

Residents and businesses can voluntarily conserve water by:

• Fixing any leaky faucets and pipes.
• Selecting appropriate washing machine and dishwasher load sizes to conserve water.
• Heeding fire danger warnings.
• By following the EPA’s 100+ Water-Saving Tips.

The Drought Steering Committee will reconvene in early January 2025 to re-evaluate Rhode Island’s water conditions, and the current level will continue until sufficient precipitation and groundwater recovery lifts it.

“While our water supply is designed to withstand drought, Rhode Islanders should be aware of the current conditions,” McKee said. “As a precaution, I encourage residents and businesses to consider taking water conservation measures to help sustain our water resources.”

A list of water suppliers in the state can be found here.