I am noticing some trees in parks showing serious drought stress: leaves have crisped up and died on the branch, without falling. These include spicebush (Lindera benzoin) , beech, and red bud (Cercis canadensis). Oaks seem to be more resilient. Dirt paths are hard-packed, like concrete, with a fine layer of dust. Ball games on Prospect Park's lawns create a dustbowl effect. I've noticed squirrels drinking daily from our birdbath. Fall colors seem unusually intense. A drought watch has been issued for NYC and residents have been asked to conserve water voluntarily.