Drought status elevated for most of state

The state’s Drought Status website provides information about conditions throughout Massachusetts.

With precipitation at an unprecedented low since mid-August, Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper on Nov. 19 elevated the drought status for the Western, Connecticut River Valley, and Southeast regions to a Level 3: Critical Drought.

At the same time, she said a Level 3 drought persists in the Central and Northeast regions. The Cape and Islands regions remain at a Level 0: Normal condition.

As outlined in the Massachusetts Drought Management Plan, a Level 3 drought requires detailed monitoring of drought conditions, close and regular coordination among state and federal agencies, and technical outreach and assistance to the affected municipalities. Tepper said the Drought Management Task Force will be meeting biweekly in the coming months to ensure responsive oversight of the drought.

Since August, when dry conditions began, all regions except the Cape and the Islands have seen an 8- to 11-inch rainfall deficit. Streamflow has also sharply decreased, especially in the Central region. This has resulted in dry brooks and streambeds, increased ponding, exposed beaches and sediments, limited fish passage, and drying ponds. Groundwater levels are also falling quickly in all regions, with the Western, Connecticut River Valley, Central, and Northeast regions showing the biggest drops.

Dry conditions led to an increase in wildfire occurrence and intensity this past fall, prompting the Department of Conservation and Recreation to implement a temporary ban on all open flame and charcoal fires within state park properties. Tepper urged residents to practice aggressive indoor water conservation to maintain sufficient supply and pressure in public water systems.

Visit the state’s Drought Status website for updates and recommendations for communities and individuals living and working within Level 3 drought regions, including those using a private well. Residents and businesses are also asked to check with their local water system in case more stringent watering restrictions are in place.