Colorado River Drought Deepens as Climate Threatens Water Supply

A new University of Colorado Boulder report warns that Colorado River flows could fall an additional 30% by 2050 because of climate change, and that pre‑climate flow levels are unlikely to return. Researchers also highlight that damming the river and its reservoirs generates greenhouse‑gas emissions, while drying wetlands in the Colorado River Delta add to the problem. The study calls this a “climate doom loop,” where water‑management actions exacerbate drying and emissions.

Meanwhile, Denver Water, which serves about 1.5 million Coloradans, has set a 20% water‑use reduction target to cope with the ongoing drought. By mid‑July the utility had achieved only a 2% cut, falling far short of its goal of 10,300 acre‑feet saved. Reservoir levels have dropped to roughly half capacity, and extreme heat continues to drive high outdoor water use. Officials say further restrictions may be needed if consumption does not improve.