OLYMPIA, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – With reports of exceptionally dry conditions in much of the state, the state Department of Ecology declared a drought emergency Tuesday, April 16.

My Bellingham Now previously reported that the snowpack in the North Puget Sound Basin is at 56% of normal according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

While conditions are not severe yet, Ecology said on their website they issued the declaration as a preventative measure. They said it allows for more assistance to be available before the predicted dry summer months, when the impacts of the dry winter will be most felt.

The entire state is under the emergency declaration with the exception of the metropolitan areas of Seattle, Tacoma and Everett. These areas have water storage systems in place that are more drought-resistant than other areas of Washington.

The drought will likely have far-reaching impacts on our ecosystems, including increased wildfire risks. There are expected negative impacts on fish and other aquatic wildlife according to Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Director Kelly Susewind. She said in a statement that stream flows are already 75% of normal.

Ecology advises that residents conserve water whenever possible. They recommend turning off faucets when not actively in use and limiting shower times. You can read their other recommendations for water conservation on Ecology’s website.