By: Laura Soukkavong
September’s heavy rain has not ended drought across parts of Massachusetts. Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper elevated the Northeast Region from Level 1 — Mild Drought to Level 2 — Significant Drought, while the Connecticut River Valley Region improved from mild drought to normal conditions.
The Northeast and Cape Cod regions, along with Nantucket County, are now in significant drought. The Southeast Region remains in mild drought. Groundwater deficits in eastern Massachusetts have kept affected regions in drought despite rainfall totals ranging from 5 to 12 inches statewide in September.
“The Nor’easter brought much-needed rainfall to Massachusetts, but drought conditions continue in several parts of the state,” said Secretary Tepper. “Continued rainfall will be important to support a return to normal conditions. We encourage residents and businesses to continue conserving water to help protect local water supplies.”
The highest September rainfall totals were recorded in southern portions of Bristol and Plymouth counties and western Barnstable County. Northeastern and western Massachusetts received the lowest totals. The rain helped suppress fire danger, but the Drought Management Task Force will continue monitoring whether the recent precipitation produces lasting improvements.
For residents and businesses in significant drought areas, state guidance calls for minimizing overall water use and limiting outdoor watering to hand-held hoses or watering cans before 9 a.m. or after 5 p.m. Users should follow local restrictions, repair indoor leaks and, in larger buildings, conduct water audits to identify leaks and conservation opportunities.
In mild drought areas, outdoor watering should be limited to one day per week between 5 p.m. and 9 a.m., or less often if required by the water supplier. Residents are also encouraged to repair leaks and consider rain barrels. The guidance applies to people using private wells as well as public water systems, and local restrictions may be stricter.
The Massachusetts Water Resources Authority’s supply system is not currently experiencing drought conditions. Even so, state officials strongly encourage its customers to conserve water to preserve resources and support communities affected by drought elsewhere in Massachusetts.
For local governments in significant drought areas, recommended immediate measures include limiting or prohibiting hard-surface washing and personal vehicle or boat washing, setting water-use reduction targets and contacting major users. Communities are also urged to maintain conservation programs, check emergency water-supply connections and develop or refine local drought plans.
State agencies are coordinating with federal and local partners, while MassDEP provides technical assistance and outreach. Residents can report dry conditions and submit photographs through the Massachusetts Water Impact Reporter. Private well owners experiencing problems, including dry wells, should contact their local Boards of Health, which are also asked to report well conditions to the state.