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Maryland Drought Info
MDE's drought analysis for the end of March 2012 indicated that the Eastern region was in a drought watch and other regions were normal. The drought analysis at the end of April indicated no change in the overall status of the Eastern region but added the Central region and the Western region to the area in drought watch. The Southern region remains normal, as do the Baltimore City region and the WSSC region.
Average precipitation has been about 64% of normal across the state from February 1 thru April 30 2012.
Groundwater levels are below the normal range for the majority of monitored locations in the Western, Central, and Eastern regions.
Stream flow for the thirty days ending April 30 are below normal at all monitoring gages except one location (Deer Creek in Harford County).
The U.S. Drought Monitor also shows ongoing Moderate Drought conditions (D1) for most of the Eastern Shore with a portion of eastern Wicomico and northern Worcester Counties in Severe Drought (D2). Most of the rest of the state is in either Abnormally Dry (D0) or Moderate Drought (D1) conditions.
At this time, conditions in the Southern, Baltimore City, and WSSC regions remain normal. Available data for the monitored reservoirs shows them to be are at or near capacity. With the growing season in full swing, conditions in all regions could worsen if sufficient rainfall is not received over the next month.
MDE reminds Maryland citizens that it is important to conserve water at all times, and especially during periods of dry weather. For more information about conserving water, please visit MDE's water conservation webpages.
Online Resources
Potomac Basin Drought Statement
U.S. Drought Monitor
U.S. Drought Portal
Drought Outlook
Precipitation Analysis
Hourly Precipitation Analysis
Metropolitan Washington Water Suply and Drought Awareness Response Plan: Potomac River System
Susquehanna River Basin Commission Drought Coordination
Related Topics
Water Resource Management
Water Conservation Homepage
Drought Monitoring and Response Plan
Variances and Exemptions
Enforcement Guidelines for Local Government, Police, and Sheriffs
What Can You Do?
Household Tips
Home Gardener Tips
Business and Industry Tips
Water Auditing
For More Information
Please contact the Water Supply Program at watersupply@mde.state.md.us or 410-537-3702
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