Press Release  Drought Conditions Improve Across Several Regions in Massachusetts

Boston — Today, Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Rebecca Tepper declared the Normal conditions have returned to the Southeast and Western Regions of the state. The Connecticut River Valley, Central, Northeast, and Nantucket County Regions have improved to a Level–1 Mild Drought. The Cape Region remains in a Level 2–Significant Drought.             

Drought is a look back at conditions over a period of time. The Drought Management Task Force (DMTF) collected and analyzed data from August 2024 through March 2026. 

During March, Massachusetts received approximately 3 to 5.5 inches of precipitation, which is normal for this time of year. Some areas – like Essex, Middlesex, Dukes, and Nantucket Counties – got less than normal, about 0.5 to 1.5 inches below average. 

“Spring has brought much-needed snow melt, rain and relief to Massachusetts. While that’s a positive step, we are still recovering from a prolonged drought,” said EEA Secretary Rebecca Tepper. “As the growing season starts, it is important that we all be conscious of both our indoor and outdoor water use and continue to follow state guidance and local water restrictions.”  

The current drought, which began in 2024, has had impacts on the natural environment and declining groundwater but with recent increases in precipitation and snow melt, drought indices are improving all around. Although local water supplies are currently stable, as the drought continues to persist and with the growing season and higher water demand season is before us, it is prudent for all to continue to be very conservative and save water whenever possible.  

As outlined in the Massachusetts Drought Management Plan, continued detailed monitoring of drought conditions must continue. The drought levels also require ongoing coordination among state and federal agencies to implement drought response actions such as water-use restrictions. Additionally, engagement with municipalities, including local Boards of Health (BOH), is essential. This includes providing technical outreach and assistance to water suppliers and affected municipalities. Residents are asked to report to their local BOH if wells drying up; BOHs are asked to report on the condition of local private wells. 

Residents can report dry environmental conditions and submit photos to help monitor the situation on the Massachusetts Water Impact Reporter. Additionally, a FAQ is now available for questions regarding the current drought status and water conservation; and private well owners can learn more for information on how the drought may impact them.  

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) will continue to assist communities in managing their water systems. The Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) water supply system is not experiencing drought conditions. Please note that even during a drought, to continue operational activities such as flushing and spring maintenance, water suppliers may need to use higher volumes of water.  

Below are recommendations for communities and individuals living and working within a Level 1–Mild Drought and Level 2–Significant Drought Regions including those utilizing a private well. Residents and businesses are strongly urged to check with their local water system in case more stringent water restrictions are in place. Many systems may have other, more severe local conditions and constraints on water supply. 

For Regions in Level 2–Significant Drought  

Residents and Businesses: 

• Minimize overall water use;
• Follow local water use restrictions;
• For any upcoming outdoor water use, limit watering to hand-held hoses or watering cans, to be used only after 5 p.m. or before 9 a.m
• Fix indoor leaks, such as from toilets, faucets, and showers, which result in more than 60 percent of indoor use; and,  
• For larger buildings and businesses, conduct water audits to identify areas of leaks and potential water conservation opportunities. 

Immediate Steps for Communities/Municipalities:

• Limit or prohibit installation of new sod, seeding, and/or landscaping; watering during or within 48 hours after measurable rainfall; washing of hard surfaces (sidewalks, patios, driveways, siding); personal vehicle or boat washing; and,
• Establish water-use reduction targets for all water users, identify top water users and conduct targeted outreach to help curb their use.  

Short- and Medium-Term Steps for Communities/Municipalities: 

• Establish a year-round water conservation program that includes public education and communication, taking advantage of the states library of outreach materials;
• Provide timely information to local residents and businesses;
• Implement or establish drought surcharge or seasonal water rates;
• Check emergency inter-connections for water supply; and,
• Develop or refine your local drought management plan using guidance outlined in the state Drought Management Plan.  

For Regions in Level 1–Mild Drought  

Residents and Businesses: 

• Minimize overall water use;
• Consider installing a rain barrel to collect rainwater for lawn and garden watering
• For any upcoming outdoor water use, limit watering to one day a week (only from 5:00 pm – 9:00 am), or less frequently if required by your water supplier
• For larger buildings and businesses, conduct water audits to identify areas of leaks and potential water conservation opportunities; 

Communities/Municipalities: 

• Limit or prohibit installation of new sod, seeding, and/or landscaping; watering during or within 48 hours after measurable rainfall; washing of hard surfaces (sidewalks, patios, driveways, siding); personal vehicle or boat washing; filling of swimming pools, hot tubs.
• Establish a year-round water conservation program that includes public education and communication, taking advantage of the state’s library of outreach materials;
• Provide timely drought and water conservation information to residents and businesses;
• Check emergency inter-connections for water supply; and,
• Develop a local drought management plan  

State agencies will continue to closely monitor and assess conditions across the state, coordinate any needed dissemination of information to the public, and help federal, state, and local agencies prepare additional responses that may be needed in the future. The DMTF will meet again on May 7 at 10:00 AM. For further information on water conservation and what residents can do, visit the EEA’s drought and water conservation pages.  

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