Drought Declared In Two More Oregon Counties

On Monday, Oregon Governor Tina Kotek declared drought emergencies in Curry and Union counties, bringing the total to 21 of the state's 36 counties now under drought status.

Curry County

As of June 30, all of Curry County is in moderate to severe drought. Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI) values over the water year-to-date (WYTD) correspond with moderate to severe drought for most of Curry County.

Union County

As of June 30, all of Union County is in some form of drought. 96% of the county is in severe to extreme drought, with extreme drought accounting for 41% of the county. SPEI values over the WYTD correspond with moderate to extreme drought for most of the county.

Drought Continues To Impact Many Parts Of Oregon's Economy

The Governor's office said drought conditions are expected to significantly affect Oregon’s farms, ranches, recreation and tourism sectors, drinking water availability, fish and wildlife habitats, and other natural resource-dependent activities. Extreme dryness will likely shorten the growing season, decrease water supplies, and increase wildfire risk.

This week's declaration directs state agencies to coordinate assistance for affected communities.