Gov. Daniel J. McKee issued a statewide drought advisory Thursday on the recommendation of the state’s Drought Steering Committee.
The committee found that three scientific indices — precipitation, groundwater and stream flow levels — met the drought advisory criteria across most of Rhode Island. Its recommendation was informed by precipitation deficits dating to November 2025, record-low stream flows, rapidly declining groundwater levels statewide and dry conditions heading into the months of highest water use.
“While our water supply is designed to withstand some level of drought, Rhode Islanders should be aware of the current conditions,” McKee said. “As a precaution, I encourage residents and businesses to consider taking water conservation measures.”
The state suggested residents and businesses voluntarily conserve water by fixing leaky faucets and pipes, selecting appropriate load sizes for washing machines and dishwashers, heeding fire danger warnings and hand-watering flower and vegetable gardens.
Conservation measures are not required statewide, but individual municipalities may have water restrictions in place, and residents are advised to check with their water supplier for guidance.
An advisory is the first of four progressive drought declarations: advisory, watch, warning and emergency. Under the state’s drought plan, known as Water 2030, an advisory will not be lifted until Rhode Island has had three consecutive months of normal or near-normal precipitation and two continuous months of normal groundwater levels.
The Drought Steering Committee is scheduled to reconvene in June to re-evaluate the state’s water supply conditions. A list of major water suppliers is available on the Water Resources Board website.
