Moderate Drought Declared Between Denver & Ft. Collins

click to expand

DENVER (CBS4) - The latest report from the U.S. Drought Monitor contains some unsettling news for thousands in the urban corridor along Colorado's Front Range.

Moderate drought has been declared for communities along Interstate 25 between Denver and Fort Collins.

What exactly does a moderate drought mean?

some damage to crops, pastures observed

streams, reservoirs, and wells are low, or water shortages are either developing or imminent

voluntary water-use restrictions requested

(credit: CBS)

The dry conditions have sparked numerous grass fires in recent days.

There's also a pocket of moderate drought in extreme southwest Colorado with several areas listed as abnormally dry.

Meteorologist Chris Spears writes about stories related to weather and climate in Colorado. Check out his bio, connect with him on Facebook or follow him on Twitter @ChrisCBS4.