Drought in Eastern Hampshire, Massachusetts

The U.S. Drought Monitor lowered the existing Severe Drought (D2) designation in Eastern Hampshire County to Moderate Drought (D1) on April 4.

April precipitation was above normal in most of Massachusetts, and as much as 2 to 3 inches above normal in Northeast Massachusetts. Central Massachusetts reported amounts that ranged from normal to an inch above normal. Individual stations in Western Massachusetts reported monthly totals of 0.25 to 0.50 inches below normal, while other stations in the region were between 0.25 and 1.0 inches above normal. Average temperatures for April were between 2.5 and 6.0 degrees above normal.

River and streams were at normal or above normal levels through the month.

Ground water conditions improved during the month. Most monitored wells showed normal to above normal levels. A few wells in Southeast Massachusetts and the Connecticut Valley were still below normal. Reservoir levels were recovering, but a few remained at below-normal levels.

A Drought Advisory was in effect for most of Massachusetts, an improvement in the Connecticut River Valley and Southeast regions which had been in a Drought Watch during March.