search icon Accessibility
search icon close icon

Drought Status

graphics shape

Level 2 Drought Status - Bridgewater MA


 

Bridgewater Drought Status

Level 2 – Significant Drought (Last updated: 03/09/2026 )

Conditions have become more serious: rainfall has been below normal for more than 2 months, and streamflow and groundwater are low,  nearing very low levels. The state’s guidance says this level calls for minimizing overall water use and tightening outdoor watering.

What this means in Bridgewater

  • Water supplies are below normal due to prolonged drought.
  • Indoor water conservation is strongly encouraged.
  • Residents and businesses must comply with all local water-use restrictions.
  • Private wells and non-MWRA water sources may be especially impacted.

How residents and businesses can help

  • Minimize overall water use, especially indoors.
  • Fix indoor leaks such as toilets, faucets, and showers.
  • Follow all local water use restrictions.
  • Large buildings and businesses should conduct water audits to identify leaks and conservation opportunities.
Statewide Drought Update (February 11, 2026)

On February 11, 2026, the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) announced that the Southeast Region worsened to a Level 2 – Significant Drought. The Millers River Basin improved to Level 2 – Significant Drought, and all other regions remained unchanged.

  • Southeast Region: Level 2 – Significant Drought
  • Millers River Basin: Improved to Level 2 – Significant Drought
  • All other regions: No change from the previous declaration

State officials said that frozen ground and long-term precipitation deficits were limiting groundwater recharge and contributing to lower streamflow, reduced lake and pond levels, and declining groundwater in many areas.

As outlined in the Massachusetts Drought Management Plan, a Level 2 drought calls for residents and businesses to minimize overall water use, follow local water restrictions, and take steps to reduce unnecessary indoor and outdoor water demand.

State agencies will continue to monitor conditions and coordinate drought response. Residents and businesses should check with their local water supplier to determine whether stricter local restrictions are in place, including for private well users.

Why Conservation Still Matters

Even where public regional systems are more stable, local sources, private wells, and groundwater conditions can still be impacted by prolonged precipitation deficits and reduced recharge.

“Even with winter weather, several regions in our state are facing below-average precipitation. To avoid overtaxing our water systems, we must prioritize indoor water conservation.”
— EEA Secretary Rebecca Tepper
Questions?
Contact the Water Supply / Water Pollution Control Office at 508-697-0910.