Drought

We are responsible for monitoring water supply and drought conditions and taking action when drought conditions exist or are anticipated.
We are responsible for monitoring water supply and drought conditions and taking action when drought conditions exist or are anticipated.

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Ecology offering $1.8 million in grants for drought preparedness

Washington has seen a recent increase in both the frequency and severity of droughts. In anticipation of more, Ecology will soon offer $1.8 million in drought planning and preparedness grants.

Water Supply Update — time to start thinking about water supplies in 2024

Warmer than normal temperatures combined with lower than normal precipitation means the drought is ongoing, and may be here to stay a while. 

​​​Innovative conservation efforts save 50% more water at Auvil Fruit Company​

Through a partnership with Auvil Fruit Company, Ecology completed an innovative conservation and water banking project that has saved 50% more water at a Vantage orchard.

Water conditions east of the Cascades

Although many areas of the state are feeling the water pinch, curtailments are often a normal part of water management. Here’s what you need to know about water conditions east of the Cascades.

Washington’s water supply outlook
Because of a May heatwave, state watersheds lost almost half their snowpack in just 18 days. Now summer river forecasts in some watersheds predict low flows.
Washington’s water supply outlook
Snowpack is up and streamflows are down. The cold and dry conditions of early spring had some surprising impacts on Washington’s water supply outlook, but warm weather is on the way.
What you need to know about dust storms in Washington
Dust storms can occur in Central and Eastern Washington every spring through fall. Here are some quick tips to help keep you safe.
Washington’s water supply outlook
As we come out of winter and into spring, water supply conditions appear normal for most of the state.
Why is this drought so wet?
Higher than normal snowpack and one of the wettest springs in recent memory may lead to questions about the current drought declaration. We have answers.
Water conservation, storage & climate change in the Yakima River Basin
Changing climate patterns are prompting water managers to look at conservation and storage in new ways to use every drop wisely in the Yakima River Basin.