Drought Indicators June 1998

By David A. Lucero Leader of Drought Monitoring Task Force

Based on the information reviewed at the June 11, 1998 drought monitoring committee meeting, no areas in the state of New Mexico meet the drought definition as defined by the drought monitoring committee. According to the palmer index however, several climate divisions have experienced rapid drying conditions over the past few weeks. These divisions include 1, 2, 3, 7, and 8.

The State Engineers Office reported runoff this past spring to be normal of the 15 year mean. The runoff this past spring however, was less than previously expected. According the U.S. Geological Survey, runoff on unregulated water was also below normal. Reservoirs from the states four basins are 100% of the 15 year mean. Water users from these reservoirs should have a full water supply this year.

As of June 1, the Surface Water Supply Index (SWSI) indicated all basins are in the normal to abundant water supply condition. SNOTEL sites indicated near normal precipitation across the state from October 1, 1997 to June 1, 1998. Precipitation in May was nearly non-existent with eleven of the thirteen stations reporting twenty five or less percent of average.

Because of the extended windy season, lack of moisture the past 3 months, and low humidity, nearly the entire state is under high to extreme fire conditions.

Since the last report, the weekly Ag. Update has also seen a decline in overall conditions. Livestock are mostly reported to be in fair to good condition, compared to the April report of livestock being rated as mostly good. Soil moisture statewide decreased from 74% adequate and 17% short to 28% adequate and 56% short. Because of the shortage of moisture in the soil, dryland sorghum planting is only 26% complete compared to the five year average of 44%.

Since "indicators" suggest portions of New Mexico are trending toward drought, the Monitoring committee will meet more frequently until conditions improve.