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Drought Status

The image shows a map of Colorado, featuring areas marked in yellow, orange, and red, likely indicating weather or alert zones.
The image shows drought severity levels in Colorado, from Abnormally Dry to Exceptional Drought, with percentages and impacts listed.

According to the National Integrated Drought Information System (NIDIS), 36% of the state is currently experiencing some level of drought (with 54% being at least abnormally dry). The map featured above shows the drought conditions on February 28.

On March 3, statewide snowpack was 123 percent of median.

Map showing Colorado's snow water equivalent (SWE) percentages for various basins as of March 2, 2023.

As of February 28, cumulative precipitation in the Colorado River watershed was tracking at 95% of average and the South Platte River watershed was tracking at 73% of average. Snowpack in the Colorado River is tracking at 100% of normal and is tracking at 82% of normal in the South Platte River watershed.

Denver Water’s supply reservoir contents as of February 6 are represented in the table below.

Reservoir Percent Full: Current Percent Full: Historical Median
Antero 96% 100%
Eleven Mile 102% 102%
Cheesman 86% 95%
Marston 76% 63%
Strontia Springs 87% 93%
Chatfield 92% 58%
Dillon 88% 98%
Gross 46% 84%
Ralston 87% 87%
Meadow Creek 45% 77%

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.

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