Massachusetts Cites Worsening Drought Conditions as Summer Arrives

Citing continued below-average rainfall and worsening dry conditions, Massachusetts officials have declared a significant drought (Level 2) in the Southeast, Cape Cod, and Islands regions of the state.

Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper said the designation also recognizes increasing stress on local water resources.

“Many parts of the state have gone months without enough rainfall to replenish groundwater levels and stream flow,” said Tepper. “As we enter the summer months, it is important to be conscious of our water use by limiting outdoor watering to ensure water supplies remain available.”

The state has experienced two years of below-average rainfall and declining streamflow and groundwater.

The Connecticut River Valley and Central regions of the state are already at Level 2 (significant). The Northeast sector of the state is under a higher Level 3 (critical) drought designation. The state’s Western region is at Level 1 (mild).

During May, the state received between 1-3 inches of rain, which was 1.5 to 3 inches below normal. The greatest precipitation deficits were in the Berkshires, the Southeast, and Cape Cod and the Islands. Rivers and streams throughout the region are running below normal levels, even with some temporary increases right after a rain event. These decreasing levels are an indicator that groundwater levels continue to go down, officials said.

The Massachusetts Drought Management Plan outlines restrictions of individual and community water use for each level of drought.