A drought is a period of drier-than-normal conditions due to a lack of precipitation—such as rain, snow, or sleet—for a protracted period of time. Although droughts occur naturally, human activity, such as water use, can worsen dry conditions.
A drought can last for months or years and has the potential to impact many aspects of life, including two of our most important needs: drinking water and food. Because of the long duration of droughts, the impacts last for years and can ripple through a community over time. Severe droughts are projected for the coming decades and may increase incidences of other events, like wildfires.
Learn about the status and location of drought conditions in New England with the United States Drought Monitor.
