Was the Recent Rainfall Enough to Put a Dent in the Massachusetts Drought?

Massachusetts has been witnessing the effects of the lack of rainfall in recent months. It's no surprise, then, that people from agriculturists to backyard gardeners have rejoiced over the recent rain that arrived in Massachusetts over the weekend of Sept. 6-7. Despite the much-welcomed moisture, more is needed to reverse the worsening drought status in the state.

According to a Boston Globe report, the area's recent rains haven't been enough to alleviate the drought on Cape Cod. In parts of Northern New England, however, the situation is much worse. “Severe drought” is now affecting New Hampshire, Maine, and Vermont, according to the latest U.S. Drought Monitor. More days of substantial rainfall would be needed to correct the drought problems facing the region.

Looking ahead to the rest of the week, starting Sept. 8, the dry weather pattern is expected to continue over the next few days, as high pressure limits rainfall possibilities. Scattered showers could occur in some areas.

Those who are planting or transplanting shrubs and trees during this time should keep in mind that, even in areas where the drought is not a problem, the topsoil is abnormally dry. Be sure to thoroughly water new plantings or transplants to get them established in the ground.

If more heavy rains don't materialize, the drought could widen to include more of Southern New England, the Globe said.