Winter 'extremes' leave California's snowpack below average
Briefly

California's snowpack remains below average at 85% due to alternating powerful storms and unseasonably warm conditions, as reported in the Department of Water Resources' third snow survey. This drop from 97% in mid-February raises concerns about water supply as warmer weather persists. Although more storms are anticipated, they may not contribute enough snowfall to meet average levels by April 1. Regional disparities highlight that Northern Sierra snowpack exceeds average at 104%, while the Central and Southern Sierra lag at 80% and 70%, respectively.
The state's snowpack stands at only 85% of what is typical for this time of year, significantly impacted by an extreme weather pattern.
There is a good chance the upcoming storms won't produce enough snowfall to make a significant difference, which could affect water supply.
With many storms missing the southern half of the state, our statewide snowpack average can mask how below average some regions are.
The average dropped from 97% in mid-February, highlighting the continued decline of the snowpack during warm, dry spells.
Read at SFGATE
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