Western Maryland Under Drought Watch as Rainfall Deficits Persist
State environmental officials urge water conservation as dry conditions spread across the region
Western Maryland remains under a drought watch as persistent rainfall deficits continue across the state, according to the Maryland Department of the Environment.
MDE's Water Supply Program confirmed the week of Monday, Oct. 26 that Western Maryland, along with the Baltimore and WSSC service areas, is in drought watch status. Central and Eastern Maryland face more severe conditions under a drought warning.
The state has been monitoring dry conditions since spring. MDE issued a drought warning for large areas of Maryland on Thursday, May 14, 2026, citing persistent rainfall deficits. The Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments declared a regional drought watch on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, encouraging wise water use.
What Drought Watch Means
A drought watch is the first of three escalating response levels in Maryland's drought monitoring system. It signals below-normal precipitation and declining water supplies, prompting officials to encourage voluntary water conservation.
Residents and businesses are encouraged to reduce nonessential water use, including:
- Limiting lawn watering and outdoor irrigation
- Fixing leaky faucets and running toilets
- Running dishwashers and washing machines only with full loads
- Taking shorter showers
Conditions Could Worsen
If rainfall deficits continue, the state could escalate Western Maryland to drought warning status, which would bring stronger conservation measures. Central and Eastern Maryland's drought warning already reflects more serious water supply concerns in those regions.
The U.S. Drought Monitor, updated Thursday, October 29, 2026, continues to track conditions across the state using data valid through Tuesday, October 27.
MDE updates its drought status based on precipitation, groundwater levels, streamflow and reservoir conditions. The department's Drought Monitoring and Response Plan, updated in December 2025, guides the state's response.
For more information about drought conditions and water conservation, contact MDE's Water Supply Program at 410-537-3702 or water.supply@maryland.gov.
