Stow Declares Level 3 Critical Drought, Urges Residents to Conserve Water

DATELINE — STOW

The town escalated to a Level 3 Critical Drought designation Thursday, signaling serious water-supply stress for residents and businesses just as summer heat settles in — and the Assessors' Office is also operating on a reduced schedule today.

TOWN HALL

The town's Level 3 Critical Drought declaration, posted to the official News Flash at 3:21 p.m. Thursday, marks a significant step up in drought severity under the state's classification system. A Level 3 "Critical" rating typically triggers mandatory or strongly recommended water-use restrictions. Residents are encouraged to visit the town's Drought Information webpage at stow-ma.gov/976 for the latest guidance on what the designation means for outdoor watering, lawn care, and other water-dependent activities.

Separately, the Assessors' Office notified the public Thursday morning that it would be opening late. No specific reopening time was included in the alert. Residents with time-sensitive assessment questions are advised to call ahead before visiting 380 Great Road.

ELSEWHERE IN THE NEWS

No new coverage from Patch, MetroWest Daily News, or The Boston Globe in this cycle.

COMING UP

— Friday, June 26: The Registrars of Voters Meeting is cancelled, per the town calendar.