Drought advisory issued for most of WA

OLYMPIA – The Washington Department of Ecology has issued a drought advisory for most of the state, including all areas east of the Cascades, portions of southwest Washington, and the Washington coast. March through April was the fourth driest period for the state since 1895.

Concern is particularly rife for farmers and ranchers in Eastern Washington. Early observations of crop stress and expectations for reduced yields are being reported according to Water Resources Planner Jeff Marti.

While Washington’s mountains received an above-normal snowpack this year, not all watersheds are fed by melting snow. Springtime precipitation is considered critical for non-irrigated crops and livestock forage.

In a few basins, including the Walla Walla and Snake River watersheds, early snowmelt is leaving less than average water levels and last month’s temperatures were higher than normal for most of the state. Drought advisories are informational only and include no emergency authorizations or funding. They are intended to provide early warning of a possible drought.

This is the first time the Department of Ecology has issued a drought advisory, but it is important to note it did not receive the authority to do so until 2020.

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