The state announced Wednesday that Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket are in a significant drought.
After several months of low rainfall and groundwater levels and below-average temperatures, both Islands have been designated by the office of energy and environmental affairs as “level two” on its four-level drought severity scale, ranging from mild to emergency.
At level two, residents do not need to be overly concerned about their groundwater supply, but should make some efforts to reduce water consumption, said Vandana Rao, state’s director of water policy.
“Generally, people don’t associate drought with winter,” said Ms. Rao. “Lack of rain feels less impactful on your outdoor water needs and such…. But residents should be mindful of their indoor water use. Don’t use your washing machines and dishwashers unless there is a full load, and keep an eye on those pesky leaky faucets and toilets.”
To monitor groundwater, Ms. Rao and the state’s water policy task force track the levels of several wells on the Vineyard and Nantucket that are not drawn from. Groundwater has been declining consistently since October.
“We had a very wet and cloudy summer, but we’re also having a pretty dry fall,” she said. “Some of the state’s biggest rain events this season have really missed the islands.”
The task force will continue to keep a close eye on the Vineyard and Nantucket’s groundwater levels over the next few months. Precipitation continues to be sparse in this month’s forecast, said Ms. Rao, and residents should stay mindful of their water use through the season.
