Despite recent rainfall from a nor'easter, drought conditions persist in Berkshire County, raising concerns about fire safety.
Last year, the Butternut Fire in Great Barrington burned nearly 1,700 acres of forestland during critical drought conditions.
Currently, most of the Berkshires are experiencing moderate drought, with statewide three-month rainfall totals at 40 to 80 percent of normal levels.
According to the National Weather Service, the Berkshires received only about 59 percent of the normal amount of rainfall in September, resulting in a deficit of approximately 2 inches.
Similar dry conditions are returning, despite rainfall from a nor'easter that swept across the region.
This year's drought conditions are comparable to those of last year, with a swath of North County in moderate drought.
Author's summary: Drought conditions persist in the Berkshires, posing fire safety concerns.