In order to monitor drought conditions across the State, Maryland Department of the Environment performs monthly evaluations of hydrologic indicators. The indicators—precipitation, stream flow, groundwater levels and reservoir storage—are used in conjunction with the condition of water supplies, status of utilities, temperature, season of year and other relevant factors. This method was endorsed by the Statewide Water Conservation/Drought Advisory Committee to measure the impact of a drought on a regional basis throughout the State.
Drought conditions are evaluated on a regional basis. Precipitation, however, is also reviewed statewide and by county. The task force plan allows for staged response to drought, with conditions being in the "Normal," "Watch," "Warning," or "Emergency." In order for a region to be placed in the "Watch," "Warning," or "Emergency" stage, two or more indicators must be in that category or a higher level. More information about what a drought watch and a drought warning entail can be found
here.
