Photo: Massachusetts Office Of Energy And Environmental Affairs
BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — Despite all the snow that has blanketed the area in recent weeks, parts of Massachusetts are experiencing a drought.
The Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs said that the Central and Northeast regions of the state are experiencing a Level 3 - Critical drought, while the southeast, Cape and Islands are experiencing a Level 2 - significant drought.
The drought levels for the Connecticut River Valley and Western regions of the state have not changed and remain at a level 2 ranking of significant drought and a level 1 of mild drought.
Read More: Weekend Storm Could Bring Up To 8 Inches Of Snow To Massachusetts
“Even with winter weather, several regions in our state are facing below-average precipitation,” said EEA Secretary Rebecca Tepper. “To avoid overtaxing our water systems, we must prioritize indoor water conservation. It’s essential that everyone follows state guidance and local water restrictions to ensure our drinking water stays available for everyone.”
Precipitation levels across Massachusetts have been below the average levels that would be typical for this time of year. Specifically, the EEA said “the state received between 1-2.5 inches of rain and snow, which is 1-13 inches below normal. Overall, most of the state has been in an 8–13-inch deficit since August.”
The Massachusetts EEA office defines drought as “a period of unusually persistent dry weather that continues long enough to cause serious problems such as crop damage, water supply shortages, and habitat loss.”