As the region continues to experience historically low precipitation, above-average temperatures and deteriorating water supplies, Gov. Phil Murphy and Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette last week moved the state from a drought watch to drought warning. The public is strongly encouraged to reduce water use as New Jersey enters the next stage in severity of water storage conditions.

The DEP announced drought watch status in mid-October, and now, with the declaration of a drought warning, the…