Massachusetts has struggled with critical stages of drought in recent years. Drought conditions have eased somewhat since late 2024 and into the new year due to rain and snow.

Drought conditions in much of Southeastern Massachusetts, including the New Bedford, Fall River, and Taunton areas, were considered "critical" by state officials until recently.

State House News Service reports, "Drought conditions are no longer considered 'critical' in any regions of Massachusetts, following designation adjustments made in the wake of what state officials described as 'several weeks of snow and rain."

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The Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper lowered the drought level for the Western and Southeast regions from a Level 3 Critical Drought to a Level 1 Mild Drought status.

The Central, Northeast, and Connecticut River Valley regions have shifted from a Level 3 Critical Drought to a Level 2 Significant Drought status.

The Cape and the Islands regions continue at a Level 1 Mild Drought status.

Anyone following the recent wildfire crisis in Southern California knows this is good news for Massachusetts.

Drought Finally Over For SouthCoast But Not The Cape And Islands
Barry Richard/Townsquare Media
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Massachusetts Drought Management Task Force says, "Despite the recent rain and snowfall, streamflow remains below normal in much of the state, resulting in dry brooks and streambeds, increased ponding in streams, exposed beaches and sediments, limited fish passage, and drying ponds."

There is some positive news. The Drought Management Task Force says, "Groundwater levels have improved in all regions."

The Task Force will meet again on Thursday, February 6, 2025, and update recommendations as necessary.

From 2016-2017, Massachusetts experienced a "flash drought." There was a "significant drought" for all of 2020. Severe drought threatened the state in 2022.

Last year's critical drought conditions resulted in "increased fire activity and wildfires."

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Gallery Credit: KATELYN LEBOFF

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