Study Finds Synchronized Drought Risk Across Colorado River Basins and California
- Reports
- 2
- Developments
- 1
- Repetition
- 50%
New informationRepeats or wire copies
What happened
Researchers analyzed over 20 years of climate and satellite information across the Upper and Lower Colorado River basins, the Great Basin, California, and the Pacific Northwest. The study found that runoff conditions in the Colorado River basins and the Great Basin were synchronized 65% of the time, and soil moisture moved together 67% of the time. The research also noted that major synchronized hydrologic extremes occur roughly every three to four years.
From knpr.org
Why it matters
The strong synchronization between the Colorado River basins and the Great Basin creates a significant challenge for water managers. Because these areas supply water to more than 60 million people and vast farmland, synchronized droughts could limit available relief water during shortages.
From knpr.org
Who's involved
- ColoradoThe research covered the Colorado River basins.
Who could feel it
Possible knock-on effectsThese are possibilities Brind reasoned out, not predictions, and not advice. Most are not stated in any report.
- ColoradoSpeculative
Agricultural operations in the affected regions might face increased costs due to synchronized water shortages.
Possible ripples
Who this could reach next, traced step by step from the reporting. Possibilities worth considering, not forecasts.- New climate research may require NWS to adjust drought forecastingNew climate research may require NWS to adjust drought forecastingPossible
- Western water research may prompt action from Michael BennetMichael Bennet may need to advocate for new federal water management strategies.Possible
- How could the research on Western water synchronization affect Jared Polis?Colorado Governor may need to adjust drought planning after new water researchPossible
- Research suggests synchronized drought challenges for Colorado water managersThe Colorado Water Conservation Board may face challenges planning for shortages due to synchronized Western drought risks.Possible
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The entities involved
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Colorado
state of the United States of America
Related events
- States compete over Colorado River water allocation between Colorado and Arizona, governed by the 1922 Colorado River Compact.
- Water management issues are affecting river conditions, with Columbia River tributaries reaching into Idaho.
- Colorado signed a declaration for wildfire and flood repairs and improved river access projects on the San Rafael River.
- NOAA and NASA are monitoring the drought profile in Colorado.
- Arizona and Nevada face severe water cuts due to deadlock over the Colorado River's impact on Lake Powell and Lake Mead.