CHICOPEE, Mass.(WWLP) – The region is experiencing dry conditions characterized by below-average rainfall, low humidity and warmer temperatures, which are contributing to an increased risk of brush fires.
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Despite long-range forecasts predicting near-normal precipitation, immediate significant relief from the dry spell is not anticipated. Small rainfall deficits over the last two months have gradually worsened conditions. This has led to some areas now experiencing moderate drought.
May typically averages close to four inches of rain, but only approximately two inches have been recorded so far this month, contributing to ongoing concerns.
“Some spots are seeing some moderate drought conditions,” said 22News Storm Team Meteorlogist Chris Bouzakis. “Thankfully, it’s not getting worse fast. It’s kind of just progressively getting a little worse, so it won’t take much if we get a really heavy rainfall to bring it back down, so that will be something to watch over the coming weeks.”
Long-range forecasts, while predicting near-normal rainfall, do not guarantee an end to the current dry spell. Heavy downpours are often less effective at easing dry conditions than slow, steady rainfall. This is because much of the water quickly runs off instead of soaking into the ground, which is necessary for improving soil moisture and lowering brush fire risk…