Albany, N.Y. – Dry conditions are tightening their grip across eastern New York and western New England, with parts of the Capital District and Saratoga region now under moderate drought. The National Weather Service in Albany reports the drought has expanded north into the Lake George and northern Taconic areas, while southern Vermont is seeing worsening impacts.
According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, a small pocket of severe drought has been introduced across the southern Green Mountains of Vermont, marking the most significant dryness so far this season. The northern Berkshires in western Massachusetts are also showing signs of stress.
The lack of rainfall is affecting agriculture, groundwater levels, and stream flows. Residents across Saratoga, Albany, and Bennington counties may notice browning lawns, reduced crop growth, and lower river levels. Fire danger also remains elevated in these dry conditions.
Officials are urging residents to conserve water and avoid unnecessary outdoor burning. While dry weather will persist through the weekend, forecasters say some rain chances may return early next week, though it may not be enough to ease the drought quickly.
