Drought is a natural part of Colorado’s normal climate and consists of a shortage of water resulting from lack of precipitation. The gradual melting of the high country snowpack sustains the water flow in mountain streams and rivers throughout the year. Low or insufficient snowpack results in low streamflows, which may be inadequate to fulfill an area’s normal water consumption.
Colorado is a landlocked state with the highest average elevation in the United States. Elevation, combined with presence of mountain ranges, results in large statewide differences in yearly precipitation, temperature, humidity, and wind, among other variables.
Although drought is a natural occurrence, its presence is cause for heightened awareness of the potential effects of availability of a lower-than-normal water supply.
Contents
Snowpack Data
Snowpack Data
SNOTEL (Snow Telemetry) data and reports are produced from snow survey sites in the western United States that contain automated monitoring devices. These reports include specific information regarding snow water equivalent (how much water is contained in the snowpack), snow depth, precipitation, temperature, and other climate-related data in hourly, daily, monthly, and yearly increments. ERWSD monitors these sites to track annual snowpack and gauge the potential water supply conditions for the following season.
Streamflow Data
The District monitors streamflow levels using data from United States Geological Survey (USGS) gauges in specific locations below, which are pertinent to District operations. Streamflow data is used for a variety of reasons including operational strategies, water quality purposes, historical comparison, and water rights administration, among others.
Drought Resources
Colorado Water Conservation Board (CWCB) Information
- CWCB Drought Page
- CWCB Drought: Frequently Asked Questions
- CWCB Instream Flow Administrative Calls
- CWCB Local Drought Planning
Colorado State University Extension Resources
- Colorado State University Drought Resources
- Efficient Landscape Irrigation during Drought and with Limited Water Availability
- Flower Management during Drought and with Limited Water Availability
- Landscape Management during Drought and with Limited Water Availability
- Woody Plant Management during Drought and with Limited Water Availability
Other Resources
Climate
Colorado is a semi-arid, landlocked state with the highest average elevation in the United States. Elevation, combined with presence of mountain ranges, results in large statewide differences in yearly precipitation, temperature, humidity, and wind, among other variables. This is especially true of the mountainous, high country regions of Colorado. Continual climactic variations also add an element of complexity to operations, as water supply, quality, and demand are all affected.
