Story perspectives

Idaho Declares Drought Emergency Amid Record-Low Snowpack

4/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

Idaho declared a drought emergency due to record-low snowpack and the second-warmest winter since 1896, affecting all 44 counties.
The declaration was approved by Governor Brad Little (Idaho) and the Department of Water Resources (IDWR).
It allows agricultural water users to temporarily change water rights to aid drought management.
As of April 1, the Snake River Basin reported water shortages; water users may apply for temporary changes under IDWR guidelines.

1 of 1

Story summary

Idaho declared a drought emergency due to record-low snowpack and the second-warmest winter since 1896, affecting all 44 counties.
The declaration was approved by Governor Brad Little (Idaho) and the Department of Water Resources (IDWR).
It allows agricultural water users to temporarily change water rights to aid drought management.
As of April 1, the Snake River Basin reported water shortages; water users may apply for temporary changes under IDWR guidelines.