SALT LAKE CITY (May 21, 2026) – Following the warmest winter on record and the lowest snowpack levels ever recorded in Utah, Gov. Spencer J. Cox issued an Executive Order today declaring a statewide state of emergency due to extreme drought conditions.

The declaration comes as snowpack peaked about three weeks early and was the lowest recorded since 1930. Currently, all 29 counties are in severe drought, with 22 counties experiencing extreme drought conditions as defined by the U.S. Drought Monitor.

“Our snowpack provides 95% of Utah’s water supply,” said Gov. Cox. “This winter, that supply fell far short of what Utah needs. We are now relying heavily on reservoir storage, which remains at 70% capacity thanks to careful management during wetter years. But those reserves are being drawn down faster than we’d like. I urge every Utahn to treat water as the precious resource it is.”

The Executive Order activates the state Emergency Operations Plan and directs the state Drought Response Committee to review hardships caused by drought and recommend actions. 

“We can’t control the weather, but we can control the tap,” Gov. Cox said. “Utahns have always stepped up in difficult seasons, and I’m confident we will again.”

Learn more about drought conditions at Drought.Utah.gov. 

Water-saving Tips and Rebates

• Residents can find water-saving tips and rebates for water-smart landscaping and smart irrigation controllers at SlowTheFlow.org.
• Check the Weekly Lawn Watering Guide for customized recommendations and don’t overwater.
• Fix leaks inside and outside.
• Run full loads (dishwashers and washing machines).
• Turn off the water while brushing teeth, shaving, soaping up, doing dishes or rinsing vegetables.
• Reduce showers by at least one minute.

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