Snowpack in the Sierra Gets a Boost in March, Still Well Below Average

news image
Special Stories
1 Apr 2020 8:34 AM
It might not have been a "miracle" March but the Sierra Nevada still saw a much needed boost in seasonal snowpack over the past month. Total snowpack increased by 10% since the end of February, from 43% to 53% of the April 1st average. The latest data from the California Department of Water Resources show the Southern Sierra is the lowest compared to average, at 45% of normal, with the Central and Northern mountains both at 56% of normal. The season got off to a fast start before a record dry February. On January 1st, the snowpack measured in at 92% of the April 1st average, however, that number dropped to 69% by February 1st and took a massive dive thereafter. https://twitter.com/NWSHanford/status/1244774426165440512 This is a drastic change from the same time last year, when the statewide snowpack measured in at a whopping 161% of normal. A nearly continuous stream of atmospheric river storms in March of 2019 helped to build the massive snowpack, which broke records at some reporting stations. The latest data come from March 30th, so the numbers may still change slightly when they are updated with information from April 1st. The date is an important one, since it's when snowpack in the Sierra Nevada is typically at its peak, though that may not be the case this year (see below). Runoff from the snowpack feeds the state's reservoirs, which are hovering between 76% and 125% of normal capacity for this time of year. A lack of water in the reservoirs has lead to water restrictions in the past. The drier than average conditions can also lead to an increased risk of wildfires later in the year. Most of the state is experiencing abnormally dry or slight drought conditions. Snowpack in the Golden State may still see numbers increase through the first ten days of April. A slow moving storm system is expected to move into California this weekend and a cooler and wetter than average pattern is being favored by the Climate Prediction Center from April 6th through the 10th. Additional information about California's snowpack, reservoirs, and stream flow forecasts can be found here. 
All Weather News
More
Severe Storms For the East Coast Through Tuesday

Severe Storms For the East Coast Through Tuesday

Frontal systems have been crossing the northe

30 Jun 2025 9:00 PM
Severe Weather Threat Continues in the Midwest

Severe Weather Threat Continues in the Midwest

It has been an active, severe season across t

30 Jun 2025 9:00 PM
Extreme Heat Continues Out West

Extreme Heat Continues Out West

An upper-level ridge is building into the Des

30 Jun 2025 6:45 PM
Hurricane Center Monitoring Florida for Tropical Development

Hurricane Center Monitoring Florida for Tropical Development

Residents and visitors to the Southeast will

30 Jun 2025 3:05 PM
Where Rain Could Dampen Holiday Travel Plans

Where Rain Could Dampen Holiday Travel Plans

AAA is expecting over 70 million travelers to

30 Jun 2025 3:00 PM
Barry Makes Landfall, Watching Flossie Next

Barry Makes Landfall, Watching Flossie Next

While the Eastern Pacific has made most of th

30 Jun 2025 10:50 AM
Thunderstorms Possible in the Southeast Overnight

Thunderstorms Possible in the Southeast Overnight

SOUTHEAST - Strong thunderstorms have develop

28 Jun 2025 2:40 AM