Island now in a significant drought

5
Courtesy Energy and Environmental Affairs

State environmental officials now consider Martha’s Vineyard to be in a significant drought.

In a monthly update, Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs secretary Rebecca Tepper announced that the Cape and Islands region has been elevated from a mild drought, or level 1, to the significant drought status, citing a lack of rain and snowfall.

The state department reports that the Cape and Islands region is experiencing a 3.8 to 6 inch deficit in precipitation over the past month, which is much in line with the rest of the state.

“Despite the recent rain and snowfall, streamflow and groundwater have worsened in nearly all [Massachusetts] regions, and recharge that typically occurs at this time of the year to reservoirs and groundwater [is] lagging,” a release from the energy and environmental affairs department stated. 

With a level two drought, state officials are recommending residents minimize overall water use and to fix indoor leaks. For larger buildings and businesses, the state recommends conducting water audits to identify areas of leaks and potential water conservation opportunities.

5 COMMENTS

  1. If we get significant precipitation in the near future will will publish a story stating that all is good? Ya, I didn’t think so.

  2. We need to get serious about building
    a desalination plant so we can enjoy
    fresh water 💦 in our future.

    Who will lead us in this endeavor?

  3. Thinking it would be helpful for homeowners to leave automatic sprinkler systems turned off for the warmer months.

    Save the cost of restarting them and help the island, a win, win!

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