YAKIMA COUNTY, Wash. – The Yakima Basin is bracing for a possible third consecutive year of drought, a situation not seen since the early 1990s.
As of March 6, the five basin reservoirs held only 38 percent of their typical water levels for this time of year, according to a report from the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation (USBR).
The low water levels are partly due to back-to-back droughts in 2023 and 2024, and the region will need an above-average snowpack to recover. However, with a limited timeframe for significant precipitation, recovery seems unlikely according to the Department of Ecology.
“We are concerned about the low water supply estimated by USBR and its impact on pro-ratable water users,” said Ecology drought lead Caroline Mellor. “We are watching conditions closely over the next few weeks to inform the state’s drought declaration process.”
During droughts, water users with junior rights in the Yakima Basin, those with rights after May 10, 1905 face curtailments to maintain river water levels for fish and protect senior water rights.
The USBR forecast indicates that pro-ratable users with a May 10, 1905 priority date will receive just 48 percent of their normal water supply this year.
Residents are encouraged to be mindful of their water usage in light of the challenges. From using efficient irrigation devices to landscaping with native plants, individual actions can help mitigate the impact of the drought.
For those considering using emergency drought wells or applying for an emergency drought transfer, planning ahead is crucial. Contact the Ecology office at 509-575-2597 for assistance.
