Drought Warning Remains In Southeastern Massachusetts

Despite recent rainfall in the area state officials say a Drought Warning remains in effect for Southeastern Massachusetts.

The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs issued a statement on Wednesday saying that while portions of Massachusetts experienced measurable rainfall amounts in the past month, large portions of the Commonwealth continue to experience below average rainfall amounts.

A Drought Advisory was also issued for the Cape and Islands, which is down from a Drought Watch that was issued in October.

“While many communities throughout the Commonwealth have received rain during the month of October, it is important to remember that over 80% of the state continues to experience historic drought conditions, and several months of significant precipitation are needed for water sources to truly rebound,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Matthew Beaton. “The Baker-Polito Administration asks that residents and communities continue to remain diligent in their efforts to conserve water in order to ensure our reservoirs, groundwater, and stream flow systems return to a more sustainable water level.”

State officials say outdoor water use should be eliminated for regions that have been issued a Drought Warning.

Regions that have been issued a Drought Advisory, outdoor watering with irrigation systems and sprinklers should be limited to no more than one day per week; and watering with a handheld hose should be limited to after 5 p.m. or before 9 a.m.

The declaration was the result of a recommendation following a recent meeting of the Drought Management Task Force, which is comprised of state, federal and local officials, and will remain in effect until water levels return to normal in the affected regions.

The Massachusetts Drought Management Plan, says that a Drought Warning indicates consecutive months of groundwater, stream flow, and reservoir levels being below normal, and initiates a set of government responses including water restrictions, and more intensified monitoring and coordination between the agencies.