- Denver Water declares Stage 1 drought due to low snowpack.
- Water use cuts of 20 percent are now in effect.
- Outdoor watering limited to two days per week.
- Reservoirs are below average as the melt season approaches.
Friday, March 27, 2026 — On Wednesday, Denver Water formally declared a Stage 1 drought
as water supplies across its service area continue to shrink. The decision came after an unusually warm winter that produced far less snow than expected in the mountains, which serve as the utility’s primary water source.
Snowpack levels in the Colorado River Basin were measured at just 55 percent of normal, while the South Platte River Basin dropped even lower to 42 percent. According to water managers, these are the lowest levels seen in at least 40 years.
Snowpack acts like a natural reservoir, slowly melting into streams and storage systems throughout spring and summer. When that snow is missing, the entire water supply system feels the impact.
Reservoirs Holding, But Not Enough.
As of March 23, 2026, Denver Water’s reservoirs were about 80 percent full. While that may sound comfortable, it falls below the typical 85 percent for this time of year. Officials say the concern is not just current storage, but what lies ahead.
With limited snow left to melt, less water is expected to flow into reservoirs in the coming months. That shortfall could carry into 2027 if conditions do not improve.
Water managers noted that even a strong April would not fully fix the problem. Recovering to normal levels would require the snowiest April ever recorded, a scenario considered highly unlikely.
New Watering Rules Begin.
To protect remaining supplies, Denver Water has set a goal of reducing water use by 20 percent. Outdoor watering is now restricted, especially during the summer months.
- Single-family homes may water lawns only twice per week, based on address:
- Even-numbered addresses: Sunday and Thursday.
- Odd-numbered addresses: Wednesday and Saturday.
- Commercial properties, apartments, and government facilities are limited to Tuesdays and Fridays.
Customers are also asked to water only during cooler hours, avoid waste, and fix leaks quickly. Automatic sprinkler systems should remain off until at least mid- to late May.
A Familiar Challenge, With New Urgency.
This marks the fifth time since 2000 that Denver Water has declared a Stage 1 drought, but officials say current conditions stand out. Rapid snowmelt, warmer temperatures, and long-term climate pressures are all contributing factors.
At the same time, Denver Water emphasized that past conservation efforts have made a difference. Over the years, customers have significantly reduced water use, helping stretch supplies during dry periods.
Still, officials say more conservation will be needed this year to maintain water levels and protect the region’s long-term supply.
A Transition from Hope to Planning.
The focus now shifts from hoping for more snow to managing what is already available. Denver Water is encouraging customers to use only what is necessary and consider long-term changes, such as drought-tolerant landscaping and efficient fixtures.
With summer approaching and conditions already strained, the coming months will test how well the region can adapt to another dry year.
