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Ramsey County Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan, 2018 Page | 89 drought can affect municipal and industrial water supplies, stream-water quality, water recreation facilities, hydropower generation, as well as agricultural and forest resources. Drought and Climate Change Droughts have been happening throughout Minnesota’s history and it is not yet clear how climate change may impact this (International Climate Adaptation Team, 2013). While there was no apparent change in drought duration in the Midwest over the past century (Dai, 2011), the average number of days without precipitation is projected to increase in the future (National Climate Assessment Development Advisory Committee, 2013). Even in areas where precipitation does not decrease, projected higher air temperatures will cause increased surface evaporation and plant water loss, leading to drier soils. As soil dries out, a larger proportion of the incoming heat from the sun goes into heating the soil and adjacent air rather than evaporating its moisture, resulting in hotter summers under drier climatic conditions (Mueller & Seneviratne, 2012). Across the nation, drought is affecting water supplies, as ground and surface water levels are increasingly reduced due to growing consumption and withdrawal. These trends are expected to continue, with a higher likelihood of water shortages (Georgakakos, et al., 2014). In 2007, 24 Minnesota counties received drought designation, while 7 counties were declared flood disasters. In 2012, 55 Minnesota counties received federal drought designation at the same time 11 counties declared flood emergencies (MN Environmental Quality Board, 2014). In May of 2015, over 90% of Minnesota was undergoing severe or moderate drought, due to low snow levels during the 2014-2015 winter and dry spring weather, with precipitation deficits totaling 3-6 inches below average across much of the state since October 2014. Water levels on streams, lakes and wetlands were below average, and wildfires were common during April of 2015. Blowing soil was also reported due to high winds and the dried-out landscape (MN DNR, 2015). Vulnerability Jurisdictions in Ramsey County do not vary in their vulnerability to drought. The vulnerability of each jurisdiction to drought has not changed due to any development in the last 5 years. Plans and Programs in Place Ramsey County Groundwater Protection Plan – The current Ramsey County Groundwater Protection Plan was prepared in accordance with Minnesota Statutes 103B.255, through identification of existing and potential problems or opportunities for protection, management, and development of water resources and related land resources. This plan was developed under guidance from both municipal and watershed district representation. MN Drought Response Plan – The State of Minnesota has a statewide drought response plan in place. The plan was prepared by the Minnesota DNR. Saint Paul Regional Water Services also has plans in place.