The dry conditions impact groundwater levels, habitats, and vegetation, even the migration of fish. It also increases the risk for brush fires and wildfires.
As a result, the state's drought management task force is recommending that residents and businesses limit outdoor watering, minimize their overall water use, and follow local water-use restrictions.
In Worcester and Natick, officials have posted announcements reminding residents that "all nonessential outdoor water uses" are prohibited, except for "watering of ornamentals and flower gardens with drip irrigation, hand-held hose or watering cans."
"In current conditions, even average daily water usage in combination with a lack of rainfall leads to depletion of the water supply," Worcester officials said on the city's website. "Conserving water doesn't just mean using less water, it also means using water more efficiently and YOU can make a difference."
Worcester officials also announced watering restrictions for golf courses, where "irrigation of fairways shall be reduced to 60 percent of normal, and there shall be no irrigation of roughs, landscaping, and ornamentals," according to the city's website.
In Wellesley, limited outdoor water use is allowed before 9 a.m. and after 5 p.m., with odd numbered addresses watering on Tuesdays and even numbered addresses watering on Fridays.
Officials in Wellesley are suggesting that residents set up their irrigation system schedule to make sure they water on the correct day.
August was "notably dry" in Massachusetts, "with most areas observing 1 to 2 inches or more below normal rainfall," state officials said.
While some areas of central Massachusetts did experience near- to above-normal precipitation, the "three-month precipitation deficits remain widespread, with much of the state seeing only 40-80 percent of normal rainfall," officials said.
Tepper urged people to do their part by conserving water and preventing fires from starting.
"Warmer summers mean dryer environmental conditions in our parks, forests, and communities," Tepper said in a statement. "As several regions experience significant drought conditions, we must be mindful of these additional factors. We urge the public to remain vigilant during this time and adhere to local water restrictions and practice water conservation."