Lack Of Snow, Rain Sparks 'Significant' Drought In Northeast MA, Central MA

MASSACHUSETTS — A lack of snowfall — combined with a rain deficit going back two years — has led the state Energy and Environmental Affairs secretary to declare a "significant drought" for a large swath of northeast and central Massachusetts, and a "critical drought" for the Millers Basin area of north central Massachusetts and Nantucket County.

EEA Secretary Rebecca Tepper said that drought conditions have extended in most of Massachusetts and that "continued snow and rainfall are needed to alleviate the drought that many regions in our state are experiencing this winter."

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"Groundwater levels still need to recover, so as we get closer to the growing season, we encourage everyone to continue to follow state guidance and local water restrictions," Tepper said. "This will help ensure that we have enough water available for our essential needs."

There were between 3 and 4 inches of rainfall, or equivalent water content in snow, in December, with the month ending 1 to 2 inches below normal.

Precipitation deficits persist going back three to six months.

The EEA said the current drought dates back to 2024 and has had "significant impacts on the natural environment, including the drying of streams in nearly all regions, lower water levels in lakes and ponds, resulting in exposed banks, and impeding fish passage out to the ocean."

"Although local water supplies are currently stable, as the drought persists and winter recharge is reduced, it is prudent for all to be very conservative and save water whenever possible," Tepper's Office said in a statement released on Monday.

Residents and businesses in critical drought locations are advised to "minimize overall water use," including reducing shower length, using a shower timer, running wash machines only when full, not letting water run while brushing or shaving, and stopping all non-essential water use.

Those in significant drought locations are also advised to minimize overall water use, check for faucet and toilet leaks, and eliminate boat and vehicle washing.

(Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached at Scott.Souza@Patch.com. X/Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)