SEATTLE — So much rain and snow has fallen across Washington state in recent weeks that experts say there’s little chance of a statewide drought being declared this year.
Department of Ecology spokesman Dan Partridge said the worries are over for now. He said snowpack and streamflow measurements as well as other indicators have alleviated concerns about a possible statewide drought.
The agency convened a group of federal and state officials in February after a dry winter start raised concerns about a possible statewide drought.
Water supply experts said they’re still watching dry pockets where low soil moisture levels could continue to present headaches.
The state relies on mountain snowpack to supply water for drinking, irrigation, fish migration, power generation and other needs through the year.
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