No snow. No water. Restrictions grow across West as drought fears rise - USA Today

Western states are facing severe drought conditions with below-normal snowfall and water supplies, prompting officials to impose new restrictions on water use across the region. The shortage stems from persistent dry conditions that have depleted reservoirs and aquifers that millions of people depend on for drinking water, irrigation, and hydroelectric power. Communities and agricultural operations are now confronting mandatory cutbacks that could affect everything from household consumption to farm productivity. The restrictions underscore how climate patterns are forcing Western states to make difficult choices about water allocation among competing interests. Without significant precipitation in coming months, drought conditions are likely to intensify, potentially triggering even stricter conservation measures.