The ongoing drought poses significant risks to Washington's water supply, agriculture, and ecosystems. With water availability below 75% of normal levels in some areas, communities and industries dependent on water resources are facing hardships. The lack of sufficient snowpack, which serves as a natural reservoir, could lead to further water shortages during the spring and summer months. Additionally, the dry conditions increase the risk of wildfires and stress on local ecosystems, particularly in regions with less than 10 inches (254 mm) of annual precipitation.