'Putting our way of life at risk': Gov. Inslee declares Washington drought emergency The combination of a record-breaking heat wave and a unprecedently dry spring and summer have pushed Washington into a drought crisis. Author: MacKenzie Belley Updated: 4:30 PM PDT July 14, 2021 WASHINGTON, USA — Gov. Jay Inslee declared on Wednesday that Washington has entered a drought emergency. A drought emergency means that the state's water supply is projected to be below 75% of the average. The shortage of water has had a direct impact on the state's farmers and wildlife. A formal drought declaration authorizes the Washington Department of Ecology to take certain measures for the purpose of providing emergency drought relief including: