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Worcester Drinking Water - Drought Information

Public Notice: As of March 9, 2026, the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs declared the Central Region of Massachusetts a level 3 drought status.

Current Reservoir Capacity

As of: 3/21/2026

89.1%

Current Drought Status

Level 3 Drought

STATUS KEY:

  • No Drought
  • Level 1
  • Level 2
  • Level 3
  • Level 4

Rainfall

Monthly rainfall totals for January and February have continued to decline following a relatively dry summer.

Chart Showing Rainfall Trends

Conservation

In current conditions, even average daily water usage in combination with a lack of rainfall leads to depletion of the water supply. Conserving water doesn't just mean using less water, it also means using water more efficiently and YOU can make a difference. For more tips on water conservation, visit our Water Conservation Page.

Water Use Restrictions

Level 3 - Critical Drought Water Restrictions Applicable to All Water Users

  • All nonessential outdoor water uses banned. Nonessential outdoor water use shall mean those uses that are not required: 
    1. for health or safety reasons;
    2. by regulation;
    3. for the production of food and fiber;
    4. for the maintenance of livestock; or
    5. to meet the core functions of a business.
  • Nonessential outdoor water uses that are subject to mandatory restrictions include:
    1. irrigation of lawns via sprinklers or automatic irrigation systems;
    2. washing of vehicles, except in a commercial car wash or as necessary for operator safety or to prevent damage and/or maintain performance of agricultural or construction vehicles or equipment; and
    3. washing of exterior building surfaces, parking lots, driveways or sidewalks.

Level 3 - Critical Drought Water Restrictions - Golf Course Operation

  • Irrigation of fairways shall be reduced to 40% of normal, and there shall be no irrigation of roughs, landscaping, and ornamentals.

Contact Information

Address

Water and Sewer Operations
20 East Worcester Street
Worcester, MA 01604

Contact

Phone: 508-929-1300
Fax: 508-799-1448
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Hours

Monday - Friday
9 a.m. - 4 p.m.