What to know about the drought in California and western half of U.S.
Much of the Western half of the United States is in the grip of a severe drought of historic proportions. Conditions are especially bad in California and the Southwest, but the drought extends into the Pacific Northwest, much of the Intermountain West, and even the Northern Plains. Drought emergencies have been declared. Farmers and ranchers are suffering. States are facing water cutbacks. Large wildfires burned earlier than usual with more major fires burning in Arizona, New Mexico and other states. There appears to be little relief in sight.
Related articles:
- CNN: In pictures - The West’s historic drought
- Fair Oaks Water District: News release - Projected record low Folsom Lake water level paints dire water picture
- Center for Western Priorities: Podcast - The future of water in the West
- San Luis Obispo Tribune: New rain season starts this week. Where do SLO County rainfall totals, lake levels stand?
- Press Democrat: Drought is pummeling the Russian River. Here’s what you need to know
- Marin Independent Journal: Answering your questions about Marin Municipal Water District supply
- Press Democrat: Seasonal dam replacement closes Russian River near Forestville