Drought Conditions Hit Denver, East Metro Area

DENVER, CO — Drought has spread from western Colorado across much of Denver's metro area, according to a monitor released Thursday by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

The agency classified the following cities and regions as 'abnormally dry':

• Denver
• Adams County
• Arapahoe County
• Eastern Jefferson County
• Eastern Douglas County
• Eastern Boulder County

Rainfall kept Denver's metro area drought-free throughout the summer, but recent dry conditions have increased, weather officials said.

Western Colorado has battled extreme drought for several months. Moffat, Routt, Rio Blanco and Montezuma counties remain under 'extreme' and 'exceptional' drought conditions, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

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Denver Water issued the following water conservation guidance:

• Water during cooler times of day. Lawn watering should not occur between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.
• Water no more than three days per week.
• Do not allow water to pool in gutters, streets and alleys
• Repair leaking sprinkler systems within 10 days.
• Do not irrigate while it is raining or during high winds.
• Use a hose nozzle with a shut-off valve when washing cars.

>> View the full NOAA Drought Monitor map for Colorado here.