Washington State could be facing a long, challenging summer. Part of the state experienced high snow fall amounts in February, but other parts, like the Cascades and Southwest Washington, did not benefit from the same storms. Spring heat has already been record-breaking and raises concerns related to reduced snowpack for the state—diminished water flow and wildfires.
In a normal year, spring brings gradual warming and temperatures that allow for steady melting that nourishes that state’s streams and rivers; however, this spring has had temperatures more typical of the middle of summer and melting has occurred at a much higher rate. As of mid-May, according to Jeff Marti, the drought coordinator for the Washington Department of Ecology, “our statewide snowpack is the fourth-lowest it’s been over the past 30 years.”[1]
These conditions have prompted the governor to declare drought for nearly half the state’s watersheds. The state’s weather is generally characterized by wet winters and dry summers, and the snowpack and rainfall of the cooler months sustains the state in the drier months. The impacts of less water will be felt in many ways as nearly 70 percent of Washington’s power comes from streamflow through hydropower dams. Reduced water flow endangers fish as the conditions for survival are threatened. Less water also prompts concern for farmers as there is less availability for irrigation. Dry conditions could lead to a long and destructive fire season. As of earlier this month, 239 outdoor fires had been reported.
Although parts of the state have adequate water supply, some areas nearly required water to be brought in via trucks last year. Given the lower water levels at the beginning of the warmer months, it elevates concerns for these vulnerable communities that may be faced with severe water stress this year.
[1] Bush, Evan. “Low Snowpack, Hot Spring Lead to Drought Declaration for Nearly Half of Washington State.” The Seattle Times, The Seattle Times Company, 22 May 2019, www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/gov-inslee-declares-drought-for-about-half-of-washington-state/.
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