KEY TAKEAWAYS

Utah's 2026 water year began with record-setting moisture in several places, but challenges remain.

Despite recent storms, 98% of Utah remains in at least moderate drought.

Improved soil moisture may enhance spring runoff efficiency, aiding reservoir levels next year.

SALT LAKE CITY — The first three weeks of Utah's 2026 water year have been "outstanding," but state water managers warn that there's plenty of ground to make up from the previous water year.

"Yes, we can all collectively say 'we needed this' as we think about the recent storms and our water supply. The recent storms are a great start to the water year, but we have a long road ahead," said Candice Hasenyager, director at the Utah Division of Water Resources, in a state drought update on Tuesday.

Utah colle

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