Drought conditions continue to linger in New Hampshire even with the snow melt and rain.
New Hampshire has been dealing with these conditions since September 2025, with 738,300 New Hampshire residents living in areas of drought, according to U.S. Drought Monitor.
January and February of 2026 were both dry months. January was the seventh driest record and February was the sixth driest since 1895, according to U.S. Drought Monitor.
Some parts of the state are experiencing more severe drought conditions than others.
New Hampshire drought conditions map
The drought is the worst in the northernmost tip of the state and lake region where it is currently ranked as severe. In the mountains and and part of southern New Hampshire it’s considered moderate.
The majority of southern New Hampshire is abnormally dry.
What steps should people take in a drought?
- Minimize overall water use and being particularly mindful of indoor water use.
- Following local water use restrictions.
- Limit or prohibiting washing of hard surfaces like sidewalks, patios, driveways and siding.
- Fix any indoor leaks from toilets, faucets and showers.
- Monitor total household water use shown on your water bill.
- Conducting regular inspections of all pipes and fixtures.
- Use dishwashers rather than handwashing dishes. Run the dishwasher only on a full load.
- Reduce shower length.
This article originally appeared on wickedlocal.com. Reporting by Seth Jacobson
