Drought in Massachusetts reaches 'critical' phase

State officials have upgraded the drought conditions in most of Massachusetts to "critical" on Tuesday.

Precipitation has been "at an unprecedented low over the last three months," according to a statement from the state's Energy and Environmental Affairs office.

Secretary Rebecca Tepper elevated the Western, Connecticut River Valley, and Southeast regions to "Level 3," or "critical drought." The same category persists in the Central and Northeast regions.

A Drought Management Task Force will meet biweekly in the coming months to ensure responsive oversight, the secretariat said.

A Level 3 drought requires "detailed monitoring of drought conditions, continued coordination among state and federal agencies to communicate the implementation of water use restrictions, declaration of bans on open burning, engagement with municipalities including local board’s of health, providing technical outreach and assistance to water suppliers and affected municipalities," the state said.

There were 37 active wildfires in Massachusetts on Tuesday.

"Massachusetts is experiencing critical drought conditions that are fueling unprecedented and destructive wildfires across the state," Tepper said in a statement. "Climate change is reshaping our region’s weather patterns, resulting in warmer and drier fall and winter seasons. Water conservation is more important than ever."

Officials urged residents to minimize water usage.

"We need to work together to ensure we have enough clean drinking water, protect wildlife habitats, and maintain effective fire control," Tepper said. "Every small effort counts.”

Most of the state received less than an inch of rain over the last 30 days, which is 3 to 4.5 inches below normal. Since August, all regions except the Cape and the Islands have seen an 8- to 11-inch rainfall deficit.

The Cape and Islands remain at a "Level 0," or under normal conditions.

With reporting by State House News Service's Michael P. Norton