Colorado experienced an unusually wet water year in 2023, with record snowpack and precipitation that eased drought conditions. Reservoir levels rose across the state, providing relief to water managers. However, experts cautioned that drought is more common in Colorado and a repeat of the wet year is unlikely. The wet conditions helped stabilize but did not fill reservoirs on the Colorado River, which remain well below capacity. While soil moisture and snowpack levels entering winter are promising, the future remains uncertain and much depends on how the snow season progresses. An active precipitation pattern and El Niño conditions increase the chances of a wetter winter for southern and parts of central Colorado, but a return of warm and dry periods is also possible.

Experts advise enjoying the fall while reservoir levels provide a buffer but recognize more variability in water supply is the norm for Colorado.