Massachusetts Drought Alert from Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA)

On Friday, July 15, 2022, the Massachusetts Office of Energy & Environmental Affairs issued the following drought alert:

Due to four months of below normal rainfall, drought has spread to 90% of the state, and intensified in many regions. Streamflow is severely impacted with dry stream beds and ponding visible in many locations. Fire danger especially in the northern half of the state is steadily on the rise, with noticeable drought stress on foliage in shrubs and grasses. Also, drought conditions are starting to impact our farms, with losses in soil moisture, more heavy irrigation needed in some areas due to lack of precipitation, and some initial signs of crop loss.  Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Bethany Card declared a Level 2 – Significant Drought in the Connecticut River Valley, Central, Northeast and Southeast Regions of the Commonwealth, and a Level 1 – Mild Drought in the Western and Islands Regions. The Cape Cod Region remains in Level 0 – Normal condition.

What can you do?

Be mindful of your water use to ensure essential needs, such as drinking water and fire protection, are being met, and habitats have enough water to support their natural functions. Exercise caution when using charcoal grills, backyard fire pits, & other open flame outdoor activities to prevent outdoor fires.

For more information on the current drought conditions, and for technical guidance regarding drought management actions, please visit www.mass.gov/ma-drought-management and for water conservation information, go to www.mass.gov/conservemawater.