
More like the Hay State, am I right? Image courtesy of mass.gov
Most of Massachusetts is in a drought, according to NOAA's drought monitor.
Details: About 75% of the state is experiencing a moderate drought, alongside almost all of Rhode Island and the eastern half of Connecticut.
- A moderate drought means honey harvests and some crop yields will be lower than expected.
- The threat of wildfires and other ground fires is increased.
Why it matters: If it doesn't rain much through the summer, water bans and other restrictions could go into effect.
Context: Massachusetts has been extra crispy since the end of June, when the drought reached its current moderate level.
- It began in May, when WBUR reported that we had the fifth-driest spring on record.
- The state uses different metrics from national agencies, and has put most of the eastern portion of Mass. in the "significant drought" category.
What's next: A severe drought would impact the yield and size of fruit crops, so pray for rain if you're looking forward to autumn apple picking.
- Officials could also start cracking down on outdoor burns.
- Air quality might worsen as well.

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