Drought Prompts Voluntary Water Reductions Across 33 Pennsylvania Counties

With many areas well below average as far as rainfall over the past several months, the PA Department of Environmental Protection has issued drought watches and warnings for 33 counties across the state. This means voluntary reductions of non-essential water are in place. Yes, this is Pennsylvania we’re talking about, not California. Below is a map of drought watches and warnings in Pennsylvania.

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Residents of all counties in the drought watch (yellow) are suggested to limit their water usage to 95% of normal. This includes Allentown, Reading, Lebanon, Harrisburg, Williamsport, State College, Altoona, Wellsboro, Bradford, St. Marys, New Castle, and Mercer along with surrounding areas. Residents of Potter County are in a drought warning (red) and are suggested to limit their water usage to 85-90% of normal.

Be sure to turn off the sprinkler at night, turn off the water when brushing your teeth, and do not take a very long shower if not needed. Of course there are many more ways to limit water usage.

Remember to share this post with your family and friends especially if you live in the affected areas! For many more weather updates be sure to like Pennsylvania Weather Action of facebook by clicking here!

Josh Adams is the founder and lead forecaster of Pennsylvania Weather Action, a regional forecasting site he launched in 2015. With over a decade of experience analyzing weather patterns across Pennsylvania, his forecasts have reached millions of readers throughout the state. Josh specializes in Pennsylvania’s complex microclimates and terrain-driven weather patterns, providing detailed coverage of severe thunderstorms, winter storms, and flooding events. His forecasting focuses on delivering precise, timely information to help Pennsylvanians stay informed and prepared during impactful weather. Last Updated: March 10, 2026