Photo: WBZ NewsRadio Photo Archive
SAUGUS, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — Despite up to four feet of snow left behind in some areas from February’s Blizzard, Massachusetts is in serious need of some water.
Officials from the Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) announced on Monday that drought conditions in Mass. have been worsening due to freezing temperatures, leaving little-to-no water for the ground to recharge. The dryness has led to critical drought levels in Central and Northeast Regions, and significant drought levels across most of the state.
Some walking through Breakheart Reservation in Saugus have been a bit concerned about the possibility of brushfires, like Bob Jordan from Wakefield.
“I worry about [brushfires], not having rain and stuff, there’s so much water from the melting snow, it should be okay for a little while,” said Jordan. “Unless we get some rain, it is dangerous for drought conditions.
Although Mass. was hit with an onslaught of snow for the past few months, three feet of snow only equates to about two and a half inches of water, and most of that water is still locked in snow due to cold temperatures throughout February.
Gloria from Malden shared that she’s hoping for some more rain, but wanted to remind folks to be cautious.
“It’s been a really difficult winter, so we need to expect a really hot summer as well,” said Gloria. “I think there’s always a big concern about fire, I think it’s a good reminder for people walking to be responsible.”
Even with water from the melted snow, EEA Officials said it’s not nearly enough water to fully recharge rivers, lakes, ponds, and groundwater. Officials are asking people to be mindful and minimize their water usage.
WBZ NewsRadio’s James Rojas (@jamesrojas.bsky.social) reports.