California Drought Free for First Time Since 2011

news image
Special Stories
15 Mar 2019 4:30 PM
https://youtu.be/TyxDYGoc36U A wet winter with multiple, strong, atmospheric river driven storms has eliminated all four categories of drought in California. The last time the state was clear of drought was December 20, 2011. Abnormally dry conditions remain near the Oregon and Mexico borders, but those represent areas going into or emerging from drought. https://twitter.com/DroughtCenter/status/1106225525746487296 Just three months ago, around 75% of California was still experiencing drought conditions. Above normal precipitation was able to fill reservoirs and increase snowpack throughout the state. Ski resorts in the Sierra Nevada are booming after statewide snowpack doubled between February 1 and March 1. Similar to 2017's abundant moisture, the spring is very colorful with a "super bloom" across the state. https://twitter.com/BLMca/status/1106672007133827072 Unfortunately, the outcomes are not all positive. Flooding was widespread across the state during February's record breaking storms. Yosemite National Park announced late seasonal openings after the heavy snowpack caused extensive damage to facilities.

"Yosemite National Park experienced significant snowfall over the winter season. The March 1 snow survey showed that both the Merced and Tuolumne River drainages are measuring at approximately 143 percent of normal (the final snow survey of the year will be conducted on April 1). Several significant storm systems in January and February produced high levels of snow, which resulted in temporary road closures, rock and debris slides, and falling trees. Additionally, these storms resulted in extensive damage to facilities throughout the park. Damage to facilities includes trees falling on and damaging campground restrooms, utilities systems compromised, tent cabins damaged or destroyed, and falling trees impacting campsites, parking areas, hiking trails, and roads." Source: https://www.nps.gov/yose

For WeatherNation, Meteorologist Karissa Klos.
All Weather News
More
Weekend Severe Risk in Montana Ahead of Pattern Change

Weekend Severe Risk in Montana Ahead of Pattern Change

While much of the western U.S. is feeling rec

11 May 2025 3:00 AM
Unseasonable Heat to Scorch Western and Northern U.S. Mother’s Day Weekend

Unseasonable Heat to Scorch Western and Northern U.S. Mother’s Day Weekend

An upper-level ridge is bringing the heat, as

11 May 2025 3:00 AM
Soaking Rains Continue Across the Southeast

Soaking Rains Continue Across the Southeast

An upper-level low will meander around the Gu

11 May 2025 12:45 AM
Florida’s Rainy Season Starting Ahead of Schedule

Florida’s Rainy Season Starting Ahead of Schedule

Florida can not seem to shake the storms over

11 May 2025 12:30 AM
Flood Threat Lingers in New England Saturday

Flood Threat Lingers in New England Saturday

A break in storms for the Northeast is on the

10 May 2025 7:25 PM
Huge Hail in the Mid-South Thursday, Storms Linger in the Carolinas Today

Huge Hail in the Mid-South Thursday, Storms Linger in the Carolinas Today

Hail over the size of tennis balls and baseba

9 May 2025 7:45 PM
Major Spring Storm Continues With Rain & Snow For the Rockies

Major Spring Storm Continues With Rain & Snow For the Rockies

Looking at the rain from a glass half full le

7 May 2025 12:40 PM