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Level 3 Drought Declared in MA
Posted on 11/19/2024

PUBLIC NOTICE - LEVEL 3 DROUGHT

November 19, 2024
Drought Update:  The MA Drought Task Force met November 18, and conditions have worsened. Rainfall is down, the air is drier, drought related fires have increased, and lakes, rivers, and streams are at low levels. A recommendation is going to Secretary Tepper to declare a Level 3 Critical Drought for our region.

This means the Foxborough Water Department is required, by permit, to elevate water restrictions to β€œBan on all nonessential outdoor water use.”

Residents and Businesses should minimize overall water use, cease all nonessential outdoor water use, and fix any toilet or faucet leaks immediately.

Please reduce indoor water use by taking shorter showers, running dishwashers, and washing machines only on a full load, and not wash hard surfaces (sidewalks, patios, driveways, siding) or personal vehicles and boats until the drought level is reduced.

There is no need for alarm - there is adequate water supply for all essential needs.  By conserving, The Foxborough Water Department will be able to draw less water from the watershed, which will benefit area lakes, rivers, and streams.

If you have questions, please call the Water & Sewer Division at (508) 543-1209.

The infographic is titled "Level 3 – Critical Drought" with an orange header and a "Conserve Water" badge in the top right corner. Below the header, a four-level drought scale is displayed, with Level 3 highlighted in orange to indicate a "Critical Drought." On the left side, the infographic describes the implications of a Level 3 drought. Rainfall has been much below normal for several months. Streams and groundwater are extremely low, with some areas experiencing record-low flows. The risk of drought-induced fires is steadily increasing. There is potential for water supply constraints, which could impact fire protection. Additionally, fish and wildlife are experiencing significant impacts. On the right side, the message "Act Now!" appears prominently in bold orange text, followed by guidance for residents and businesses. People are urged to minimize overall water use and to stop all non-essential outdoor watering. These actions are visually supported by icons, including a faucet with water droplets and a garden hose within a red no-symbol. At the bottom of the infographic, an orange section encourages viewers to stay informed with the message, "Get a drought update at MASS.GOV/MA-DROUGHT-MANAGEMENT." A black silhouette map of Massachusetts accompanies the text.