Drought in Western Hampden, Massachusetts

The U.S. Drought Monitor continued the Extreme Drought (D3) designation in western Hampshire County through the month of December.

Precipitation was below normal for most of Massachusetts during December, but with areas of above normal amounts along the North Shore and around Quabbin Reservoir in Central Massachusetts. Amounts in Southeast Massachusetts were near 2 inches below normal while Amherst was near 1 inch above normal.

A Drought Warning remains in effect for most of Massachusetts. A Drought Advisory continued for Cape Cod and the Islands.

Although rivers and streams had some fluctuations during the month, they were predominantly at below normal levels during December. Reservoirs monitored by Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), were mainly at below normal levels.