Drought in Western Hampden, Massachusetts

The U.S. Drought Monitor continued the Extreme Drought (D3) designation in the Wastern Hampden County through February 7. On February 7, this was reduced to the Severe Drought (D2) designation for the remainder of the month.

Precipitation was one-half inch to one and one-half inches below normal for most of Massachusetts during February, but one-quarter inch above normal in the Northeast. Above normal temperatures allowed for periods of rainfall and snow melt, prompting an increase in river and stream levels, and also reservoir levels. Soils remained thawed during the month, allowing for groundwater recharge.

A Drought Warning remained in effect for the Connecticut Valley and Southeast parts of Massachusetts. A Drought Watch was issued for Western and Central areas, an improvement from the January Drought Warning. A Drought Advisory was issued for the Northeast region, an improvement over the Drought Watch previously in effect. The Cape and Islands remained in a Drought Advisory.

Cold temperatures mid-month allowed for a period of accumulating snowfall. Then a warmup occurred heading into late February. During the 23rd to 25th, daytime highs were in the 60s and 70s. The resulting snowmelt prompted a boost in river and stream flows to normal or above normal levels during the latter portion of the

month.

Ground water conditions varied considerably. Wells over Cape Cod and southeast MA were mainly below normal. In northwest MA, wells were mainly above normal.

Reservoirs monitored by Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), were mainly 80 to 90 percent of normal levels with some recovery noted.