Rivers in the Maritimes are experiencing low water levels due to an ongoing drought, leading to dry wells in certain communities. Time is of the essence to replenish the water table before the ground freezes during the upcoming winter season.
Looking back at the past six months, there has been a notable precipitation deficit ranging from 100 to 300 millimeters across the region. This has resulted in severe to extreme drought conditions in much of the Maritimes, significantly impacting agriculture and the water table.
The drought is causing significant water shortages and dry wells in various parts of the Maritimes as the lack of rainfall is depleting underground aquifers. Once winter sets in and the ground freezes, ice obstructs water infiltration into the soil, reducing the recharge of the water table.
The next few weeks are crucial for initiating the process of recharging the water table, but even with some beneficial rainfall before the ground freezes, the substantial deficit emphasizes the need for a winter with abundant snowfall. Snow accumulation during winter acts as a natural reservoir, slowly melting in spring to recharge the water table.
A robust snowfall during the upcoming winter could aid in long-term drought recovery and benefit next year’s growing season. However, if the drought persists into winter without sufficient snowfall, it could have significant implications for next year’s crops and the water table.