Drought in Upper Gunnison River Valley, Colorado

At the beginning of the month of September, the US Drought Monitor analyzed an area of Extreme (D3) Drought that covered roughly 50% of Colorado Zone 014 - Upper Gunnison River Valley, with the remainder of the zone under Severe (D2) or better drought conditions. With the 9/3 Drought Monitor update, the area of Extreme (D3) Drought was reduced to 40% coverage. With the 9/17 update, Extreme (D3) Drought coverage was again reduced, now covering roughly 1/3 of the zone. From this point to the end of the month, there were no substantial changes to drought conditions.

The month of September continued to run above normal in terms of temperatures, and below normal in terms of precipitation. However, there were a few periods of heavy rain across the region, particularly around September 12th, and again at the end of the month, which helped to improve drought conditions across the region. A dry end to the month did allow for some worsening drought around the Four Corners.