Cambridge’s Drought Status Downgraded to Mild; Water Department Issues Update Regarding Reservoir Levels


9/22/2026 • 1 day ago

Water Drought Status Map of Massachusetts as of September 2026
The Cambridge Water Department (CWD) wants to make the Cambridge community aware of an update to our region’s water drought status. Recent rainfall has helped ease long-term dry conditions across the region and the State has recently announced that Cambridge and the Northeast Region of the Commonwealth has been downgraded from a Level 2- Significant Drought to a Level 1 - Mild Drought.

Despite this improvement, Cambridge’s primary water source - the Hobbs Brook Storage Reservoir - remains well below normal levels. Due to the severity and persistence of the current drought that began in 2025, Hobbs Brook did not fully recharge in the spring and remains in a significant deficit. Normal to above average rainfall during the remainder of September and October will be required to help maintain our reservoirs above minimum operating level. If below average rainfall trends continue, the City may need to purchase supplemental water from the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) over the coming months to ensure a reliable supply for the community.

Per City ordinance, under a Level 1- Mild drought, required non-essential water restrictions remain in place.

Level 1 - Mild Drought

  • All nonessential outdoor water uses restricted to no more than one day per week, before 9 a.m. and after 5 p.m., except that watering of ornamentals and flower gardens with drip irrigation, hand-held hose or watering cans may be permitted.

Below are recommendations for residents, business owners, and building managers during a Level 1 - Mild Drought, including those utilizing a private well. Strong adherence to these recommendations will help preserve existing reservoir levels.

For Regions in Level 1 - Mild Drought

  • Plant only local and drought-resistant species;
  • Fix indoor leaks, such as from toilets, faucets, and showers, which result in more than 60 percent of indoor use;
  • For larger buildings and businesses, conduct water audits to identify areas of leaks and potential water conservation opportunities;
  • Minimize lawn sizes; and,
  • Harvest rain water for outdoor watering.

For questions or more information, please contact the Cambridge Water Department at 617-349-4770, email CWD@cambridgema.gov or visit https://www.cambridgema.gov/Water.