Recent precipitation has helped to alleviate drought conditions across parts of Colorado, reports The Prowers Journal. Parts of the central mountains and Front Range saw as much as 3 inches of precipitation. And there’s more good news: short and long term forecasts favor continued precipitation. And reservoir storage looks good, so there are no immediate concerns for water providers. Many agricultural producers are looking to increase production this season to compensate for low commodity prices.
Much of the state has seen above normal temperatures in March and April. Warmer temperatures are also likely to continue into the spring, to accompany the rain. The Upper Rio Grande has the lowest year-to-date precipitation at 87 percent of average, while the South Platte has the highest at 112 percent of average.
The Arkansas and Yampa/White basins have the highest reservoir storage levels in the state, at 120 percent of average.