Precipitation for Utah, pictured here in 1999, has been half to three-quarters of the historical average since April 1. File Photo by Michael J. Miller/UPI | License Photo
The governor of Utah declared a state of emergency Thursday as worsening drought threatens a broader water crisis affecting public safety, agriculture, power generation, ecosystems and daily life.
The state's snowpack was dubbed "no-pack" this winter after ending the season at a record-low snowfall percentage. Precipitation for the state has been half to three-quarters of the historical average since April 1. Most of the state, 61%, is in an extreme drought, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. The last time that happened was August 2022.
"We can't control the weather, but we can control the tap," Gov. Cox said, calling for conservation measures across all sectors.
Under the new emergency advisory, local water districts are asking residents to reduce outdoor water use. Salt Lake City has asked for a 20 percent reduction. Agricultural interests have already had their water allotments decreased, including the governor's farm, which had its production cut in half.
