Massachusetts drought

A University of Massachusetts Amherst analysis of climate data from the National Weather Service shows several Northeast communities experienced their driest autumn on record this year.

Much of Massachusetts remains under a Level 3 Critical Drought — one step lower than the most dire rating. The entire state besides the Cape and Islands Region is experiencing extremely dry conditions.

Officials say Massachusetts is experiencing an "unprecedented" fall fire season amid widespread, critical drought conditions. With a red flag warning up for the entire state, Governor Maura Healey and others gave an update Tuesday as fire crews work to contain the flames.

A moderate drought has been declared throughout New Hampshire, with more severe conditions along its southern border.

The drought is over for most of Massachusetts. But, below normal precipitation for several years in southern New England means we are not out of the woods…