Overview
- The latest U.S. Drought Monitor shows 49 states at least partly abnormally dry, leaving California drought-free after late-2025 storms and putting more than 130 million people under unseasonal water stress.
- Colorado’s statewide snowpack sits at roughly 57% of average with only 4.7 inches of snow-water equivalent, a new record low for this date after another week with little high-country snowfall, forecasters report.
- Water managers say multiple major storms would be required to close the deficit this winter, warning of potential summer restrictions, tight reservoir supplies, and stressed farm and municipal deliveries if conditions persist.
- The snow drought is already curtailing winter recreation across the Mountain West, with resorts struggling to keep terrain open and businesses reporting steep losses.
- Federal outlooks project sharply reduced Colorado River flows, with Lake Mead potentially near 27% of normal by 2027 and risks to Lake Powell hydropower, as seven basin states face a February 14 deadline for a new operating deal.