drought map

Drought Status




According to the January 25 update from the National Integrated Drought Information System (NIDIS), 0% of the state falls into the exceptional drought category, 21% is in an extreme drought, 66% is in a severe drought, 83% is in a moderate drought, and 100% of Colorado is experiencing abnormally dry conditions. The map featured above shows the drought conditions on January 25. 

Current statewide drought conditions for Colorado have improved since October 2021. The first quarter of water year 2022 was above normal in terms of temperature. As of mid-January a rough divide appeared in Colorado with regard to precipitation, with western slope generally experiencing wetter conditions, while the eastern slope generally continues in drought conditions. La Niña is currently in effect and projections show somewhat equal chances for above or below average precipitation moving into the spring. La Niña years in Colorado tend to result in smaller, drier storms
overall.

Currently, on February 1, snowpack statewide is 104 percent of median.

 

As of January 24 cumulative precipitation in the Colorado River watershed was tracking at 113% of average and the South Platte River watershed was tracking at 64% of average.

As of January 24, snowpack in the South Platte River Watershed was at 104% of normal with a percent of normal peak at 50% while snowpack in the Colorado River Watershed was at 99% of normal with a peak of 51% of normal.

ReservoirPercent Full: CurrentPercent Full: Historical Median
Antero101%99%
Eleven Mile102%102%
Cheesman82%83%
Marston67%54%
Strontia Springs87%94%
Chatfield96%95%
Dillon84%88%
Gross21%38%
Ralston62%52%
Meadow Creek0%12%

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.