Jared Polis has declared a statewide drought emergency and activated Phase 3 of Colorado’s Drought Response Plan in response to worsening drought conditions across the state.
According to the Governor’s office, the action was taken due to record-low snowpack levels and prolonged warm temperatures that have intensified drought conditions throughout Colorado.
The declaration follows recommendations from the Colorado Drought Task Force and the Water Conditions Monitoring Committee.
A report released yesterday by the U.S. Drought Monitor found that nearly 93 percent of Colorado is currently experiencing moderate to exceptional drought conditions.
State officials say the emergency declaration will help coordinate drought response efforts, monitor water supplies, and support communities, agriculture, and other sectors affected by the ongoing dry conditions.
