Idaho is facing significant drought conditions, particularly affecting the Upper Snake River region. This year, the area is experiencing its eighth lowest water supply in the past 45 years, according to the Idaho Department of Water Resources (IDWR). The Palisades and American Falls reservoirs are notably below normal levels, which will impact water users along the Snake River.

Impact on Idaho Residents

The IDWR reports that over 903,000 Idahoans are currently living in drought-affected areas, primarily south of the Snake River. Despite some relief in April due to rainfall and cooler temperatures, May has brought record-breaking heat, with temperatures reaching 96 degrees, accompanied by dry winds. These conditions have exacerbated the drought situation, with 90% of the annual rainfall having occurred between October and April.

Weather Patterns and Water Supply

Troy Lindquist from the NOAA National Weather Service in Boise noted that the snowpack is significantly reduced due to a warmer winter, with snow melting three weeks earlier than usual. Although April’s cooler temperatures temporarily improved water levels in Southwest Idaho, the Upper Snake region remains dry. Currently, Idaho and Wyoming have the most snow in the Western United States, but only 15% of the snowpack remains.

Local Reservoirs and Flood Risks

In Boise, the reservoir system is reported to be full, with no immediate flood risks, according to Grant Bell from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. This contrasts with the situation in other parts of the state, where water shortages are a growing concern as the summer progresses and dry conditions are expected to continue.

Original reporting: KTVB (Boise metro) — read the source article.