Watch CBS News

Despite Grim Snow Outlook, No Need To Panic About Water Supply

By Karen Morfitt

DENVER (CBS4)- Colorado's current snowpack numbers are tied for the worst start in 33 years.

That is according to the Colorado Snow Survey.

Despite the grim outlook Denver Water spokesperson, Travis Thompson says they have not hit the panic button just yet.

"No snow is always concerning to Denver Water because that is where our water supply comes from," he said.

DENVER WATER SNOWPACK 10PKG.Copy.01_frame_1420
(credit: CBS)

Thompson says for the city it is just too early to know what the real impact will be.

The upper south Platte and upper Colorado watersheds help feed Denver's collection sites.

DENVER WATER SNOWPACK 10PKG.Copy.01_frame_566
CBS4's Karen Morfitt interviews Denver Water spokesperson, Travis Thompson (credit: CBS)

Currently both are faring better than those to the south which have dropped below 50 percent.

"Fortunately in the watershed and the locations that feed our reservoirs they are not quite as bad but they are slightly behind where they are typically this time of year," Thompson said.

DENVER WATER SNOWPACK 10PKG.Copy.01_frame_1915
(credit: CBS)

In fact, he says their reservoir levels are higher than normal- sitting at around 88 percent full.

That Thompson says is thanks in large part to consumers.

DENVER WATER SNOWPACK 10PKG.Copy.01_frame_146
(credit: CBS)

"We have these storage collection systems where we are able to get through the summer and some of these dry times, that's where the efficient water use from our customers down here in the city comes into play," he said.

Karen Morfitt joined the CBS4 team as a reporter in 2013. She covers a variety of stories in and around the Denver metro area. Connect with her on Facebook, follow her on Twitter @karenmorfitt or email her tips.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.