Denver Faces Severe Drought, Water Restrictions Tighten
Metro Denver is experiencing one of its hottest and driest summers in years, with reservoir levels dropping to 65-75% of their usual capacity (Denver Post, 2026-07-26). High temperatures, consistently in the 90s °F (32-37 °C), and a record-low snowpack have exacerbated the situation. Cities like Castle Rock and Aurora have implemented stricter water restrictions, including fines for violations. Denver Water, serving 1.5 million customers, has seen only a 5% reduction in water use despite mandatory measures. The National Weather Service has noted a 'very strong' El Niño pattern, which could bring relief through monsoon rains and heavier snow this winter. 
