Wide Swath Of MA Now In 'Severe Drought'

WORCESTER, MA — Six Massachusetts counties are now in a severe drought, including almost all of Bristol County, and large parts of Worcester, Norfolk and Plymouth counties.

The U.S. Drought Monitor upgraded the state's drought condition on Thursday. Apart from the "severe drought" status, much of the state is now in a "moderate drought." Only the far western edge of the state along the New York border and a small section at the along the northern Connecticut River are experiencing the lowest drought level, "abnormally dry."

Although rain showers have swept across the state this week, it hasn't nearly made up for a very dry summer. Every part of the state is in a rain deficit, with the worst in Cape Cod and the islands, according to the state Department of Conservation and Recreation.

Here's a look at the rain deficits by region as of July:

The U.S. Drought Monitor says that the "severe drought" classification brings the risk of crop failures, poor air quality due to outdoor burning, fish kills and trees that are more susceptible to invasive insects.

Almost all of New England — except for far northeast Maine — is in some form of drought at the moment.

There's a low chance of precipitation this weekend, but temperatures will begin to creep up toward 90 beginning on Friday across much of Massachusetts.