YAKIMA, Washington - The Bureau of Reclamation's mid-July, 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 46 percent supply for junior water rights.
This is a 2 percent increase for junior water rights over the early July rate. The increase is derived from reservoir storage being higher than projected and a current weather forecast of cooler and possibly wetter conditions.
The mid-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 run-off and water demands are also critical in determining stream flows, prorationing, and the storage available in the reservoirs.
If precipitation and runoff forecasts continue to change, Reclamation expects the water supply available for junior users to be re-evaluated. 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
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Source: Bureau of Reclamation
