Drought Information
updated on September 10,2026
September 10, 2026:
Today, Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Rebecca Tepper declared the Central Region has returned to normal conditions. The Connecticut River Valley and Northeast Regions have improved to a Level-1 Mild Drought, while the Western Region and Dukes County remain at normal conditions.
Regions in current drought levels are:
- Level 2 – Significant Drought: Cape Cod and Nantucket County
- Level 1 – Mild Drought: Connecticut River Valley, Northeast and Southeast
Following a wet July, August was drier than normal, with 1.5 to 4 inches of rain across Massachusetts. Essex, Suffolk, Berkshire, Barnstable and Nantucket counties saw some of the lowest rainfall totals. Overall, rainfall from June through August was near or above normal across much of the state. However, longer-term rainfall deficits remain in many parts of the state.
As outlined in the Massachusetts Drought Management Plan, communities in Level 2 – Significant Drought and Level 1 – Mild Drought should continue taking steps to conserve water. 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.
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 October 8th at 9:30 AM. For further information on water conservation and what residents can do, visit the EEA’s drought and water conservation pages.
Posted: to General News on Mon, Jun 15, 2026
Updated: Wed, Sep 23, 2026