The hot, dry summer of 2020 created conditions for a series of devastating wildfires and low rivers, streams and reservoir levels in Colorado’s mountains.
As of Oct. 1, the U.S. Drought Monitor considered more than 99% of Colorado to be in some level of drought. Long-range forecasts indicated the hot, dry weather pattern the state experienced throughout the summer could continue into this fall and winter.
And that’s concerning as we head into winter — a critical time for Denver’s water supply that starts as winter’s snow.
That’s why Denver Water’s supply and drought experts are meeting regularly, keeping a close watch on weather forecasts, drought levels and soil conditions in the state’s mountains and preparing for what those factors might mean for the metro area in 2021.
We are taking steps now to prepare for potential measures to ensure adequate water supplies will be available well into the future in case water supplies fall short next spring.
You, too, should use the months ahead to look at how you use water inside and outside your home, eliminate leaks and continue to find ways to be more efficient.
See information about Denver Water’s plans for water shortages, including drought.