Severe Drought Persists Across Intermountain West
Drought conditions remain widespread and severe across the Intermountain West, encompassing Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, 95% of the region is experiencing some level of drought, with 30% classified as Extreme (D3) or Exceptional (D4). Record-breaking heat has exacerbated the situation, with July temperatures ranking as the warmest on record for Wyoming and among the top four warmest for other states in the region. Monsoon rains in July provided limited relief, primarily in Arizona, Utah, and western Colorado and New Mexico, but failed to significantly improve water supply. Reservoir levels, including Lake Mead and Lake Powell, remain critically low, threatening water availability, hydropower generation, and agriculture. Elevated wildfire risks and impacts on livestock and fisheries further compound the challenges. 
