Drought in San Juan River Basin, Colorado

At the beginning of the month of April, the US Drought Monitor analyzed an area of Extreme (D3) Drought as covering 100% of Colorado Zone 023 - San Juan River Basin. With the 4/8 US Drought Monitor update, the area of Extreme (D3) Drought was reduced to 75%, with Severe (D2) Drought now covering 25% of the zone. With the 4/29 update, Extreme (D3) Drought was further reduced to 10% coverage, with Severe (D2) Drought now covering 90% of the zone. Drought impacts at this point are limited to reduced winter tourism due to the poor winter snowpack. The Colorado State Climatologist has referred to this year's winter snowpack as historically poor. Additionally, concern is increasing over the impact of the drought on the upcoming summer wildfire season. There is also concern over water availability for home irrigation, farming, and ranching.

The month of April saw weather closer to that expected for the time of year. While temperatures did end up being, on average, warmer than normal, the departures were significantly less compared to the month of March. The mountains saw a few solid snowfalls during the month, as well as some precipitation across the lower elevations. Areas north of I-70 generally fared the best. Locations in this region did see some improvement in drought conditions. Areas south of I-70 generally remained the same or worsened slightly.