Episode Details

Washington State Faces Severe Drought: Snowpack at 54% of Normal, Impacting Cities, Farms, and Wildlife

Washington state is experiencing its fourth consecutive severe drought, with snowpack at just 54% of normal, the lowest in recent history. This climate shift has led to warmer winters, causing more rain than snow, which cannot be fully stored in reservoirs. The lack of snowpack results in low stream flows, affecting salmon and trout populations and increasing wildfire risks.

Seattle City Light plans to implement a 4% customer surcharge due to the drought, but if it persists, they may have to buy expensive power, further increasing future rates. Farmers in the Yakima Basin are facing the most significant challenges, with one district delivering under half of the normal water supply, leading to higher fruit and vegetable prices at stores. State aid may be provided if another emergency is declared.

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