Drought in Eastern Uinta Basin, Utah

At the beginning of the month of April, the US Drought Monitor analyzed an area of Exceptional (D4) Drought as covering approximately 40% of Utah Zone 024 - Eastern Uinta Basin, with the remaining 60% of the zone under Extreme (D3) Drought. These drought conditions did not change through the end of the month. No direct drought impacts have been felt as yet, but concern is increasing over the impacts of the drought on the upcoming summer wildfire season. Additionally, there is some concern about 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.