drought conditions

80% of Colorado is experiencing drought conditions

According to the July 2nd update from the National Integrated Drought Information System (NIDIS), 32.7% of Colorado is in an extreme drought, 22.1% is in a severe drought, 11.8% is in a moderate drought and 16.3% of the state is abnormally dry. Collectively, over 80% of Colorado is officially considered to be in a drought. The map featured above shows the drought conditions on July 2nd.

On June 22, Governor Polis activated the State Drought Mitigation and Response Plan and the supporting Drought and Agricultural Impact Task Forces to respond to deepening drought conditions across the state. For more information on the developing 2020 drought season and response resources, visit the Colorado Water Conservation Board drought website.

As of July 6th, cumulative precipitation in the Colorado River Watershed was tracking at 96% of average and cumulative precipitation in the South Platte River Watershed was tracking at 98% of average.

Reservoir storage is at 100% of average across the state and ranges from 62% of average in the Rio Grande to 115% of average in the Colorado and Yampa/White basins. Denver Water’s supply reservoir contents as of July 6th are represented in the table below.

ReservoirPercent Full: CurrentPercent Full: Historical Median
Antero88%100%
Eleven Mile103%102%
Cheesman97%95%
Marston82%63%
Strontia Springs86%93%
Chatfield50%57%
Dillon97%98%
Gross44%84%
Ralston92%87%
Meadow Creek66%76%

 

The district will continue to work with Denver Water on monitoring the watersheds and will provide updates to our customers through our website and social media channels.

 

Please remember that Outdoor Watering Rules are in effect until October 1st!