Most Of New Hampshire Is Now In A Moderate Drought

CONCORD, NH — Environmental officials said Thursday that the state of New Hampshire is now officially experiencing moderate drought conditions.

According to data, during the past two weeks, moderate drought conditions have developed. Significant drought conditions have developed along the southern border with Massachusetts. The data was based on tracking since July 12, meaning it does not include the recent severe thunderstorms on that day that knocked out power to thousands across the state.

James Martin, a spokesman for the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services, said during the past 30 days, rainfall has been 50 to 75 percent lower than normal. The low snowpack during the winter and an early spring thaw also contributed to the current drought.

“These conditions led to a rapid decline in soil moisture, surface water levels, and streamflow, which resulted in the drought declaration,” he said. “So far, groundwater levels in the southern part of the state are somewhat variable, however, uniform low groundwater levels along the Connecticut Valley have been measured along with very low stream flows in the northeast section of the state.”

Martin said the drought was likely to persist through the summer because the volume of rain needed to catch up during the next few months was “unlikely to materialize.” Also, he said, temperature outlooks were “signaling a potential for higher-than-normal temperatures, which can exacerbate drought conditions.”

The department urged outdoor water use restrictions and limited lawn watering to before 8 a.m. or after 7 p.m. on odd and even days.

“Everyone should abide by these restrictions, and if restrictions are not in place,” he said, “take responsibility for limiting their own water use to protect water supplies and home wells.”

For more information about drought conditions, maps, and recommendations, visit the state’s website, linked here.

Got a news tip? Send it to tony.schinella@patch.com. View videos on Tony Schinella's YouTube.com channel or Rumble.com channel.