Washington State declares drought emergency due to low snowpack and dry forecasts, affecting most of the state; snowpack at 63% of normal.

Washington State has declared a drought emergency due to low snowpack and dry forecasts, affecting most of the state except parts of Seattle, Tacoma, and Everett. The Department of Ecology declared the emergency, citing a snowpack of only 63% of normal levels. The low snowpack and dry forecasts increase the risk of water supply shortages, negatively impacting agriculture, drinking water, hydropower, and wildlife. The state has set aside $4.5 million for drought response grants to assist local governments and public agencies dealing with the effects of the drought.