Drought and Snowpack Status

The image shows a map of Colorado with areas shaded in yellow, orange, and red, possibly indicating different temperature or precipitation levels.
The image shows drought categories and their percentages in Colorado: D0 (29.9%), D1 (28.2%), D2 (12.7%), D3 (3.8%), and D4 (0%). Total drought area is 44.7%.

According to the May 6 update from the National Integrated Drought Information System (NIDIS), 44.7% of the state is currently experiencing some level of drought with 28.2% in the Moderate Drought category, 12.7% in a Severe Drought, 3.8% in the Extreme Drought category, and 29.9% of Colorado is Abnormally Dry. The map featured above shows the drought conditions on May 6.

As of May 12, snowpack in Denver Water’s collection areas stood at 53% of normal in the South Platte Basin and 89% of normal in the Colorado River Basin.

Cumulative precipitation in the Colorado River watershed was tracking at 104% of average and the South Platte River watershed was tracking at 84% of average.

Denver Water’s total reservoir supply is at 83% full which is consistent with the historical median.

Denver Water’s Summer Watering Rules are in effect from May 1 to October 1.

Currently, on May 13 snowpack statewide is 46% of median.

Map showing Colorado's snow water equivalent as of May 12, 2025, with various regions colored for percentage of median levels.

Percent of median by river basin:

  • Yampa and White: 46
  • Colorado Headwaters: 49
  • Laramie and North Platte: 56
  • South Platte: 66
  • Gunnison: 35
  • Arkansas: 41
  • Upper Rio Grande: 19
  • San Miguel, Dolores, Animas and San Juan: 25

Information provided by USDA, NIDIS, and Denver Water.

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