YAKIMA, Washington - The Bureau of Reclamation's July 2, 2015 Total Water Supply Available forecast for the Yakima Basin indicates a full water supply for senior water rights during this irrigation season, but an estimated 44 percent supply for junior water rights.
Reclamation will issue water supply forecasts monthly or as needed at least through July.
The July TWSA forecast is based on observed and estimated flows, precipitation, snowpack, and reservoir storage for April 15 to Sept. 30. Future weather conditions that help determine the timing of runoff and water demands are also critical in determining stream flows, prorationing, and the storage available in the reservoirs.
If precipitation and runoff continue to be unfavorable, Reclamation expects the water supply available for junior users to decline further. Since longer term weather conditions are unpredictable, Garner recommends that water conservation be considered by all users in the Yakima Basin.
For more information, visit our website at http://www.usbr.gov/pn/hydromet/yakima.
Source: Bureau of Reclamation
