California’s “frozen reservoir” just got a modest boost, but it’s still playing catch-up.
During its third survey of the season at Phillips Station in the Sierra Nevada, the California Department of Water Resources measured 28 inches of snow depth with 11 inches of snow water equivalent. That translates to just 47 percent of average for that specific location.
Statewide, conditions are slightly better — but still below where they should be. The overall Sierra snowpack sits at 66 percent of average for this time of year.
A burst of cold, productive storms in mid-February helped improve numbers after a five-week dry spell. But according to state officials, the gains weren’t enough to erase earlier deficits. Warmer systems this week even triggered some melting at lower elevations.
The regional picture tells two very different stories. The Southern Sierra is near healthy levels at 90 percent of average. The Northern Sierra, home to several of California’s largest reservoirs, lags far behind at just 46 percent.
That imbalance matters. On average, the Sierra snowpack provides roughly 30 percent of California’s water supply. Snow typically continues accumulating through March and peaks around April 1 before melting into rivers and reservoirs.
There is some good news. Major reservoirs across the state are currently sitting at 122 percent of average storage for this time of year. Water managers say they’re focused on capturing as much runoff as possible if additional storms arrive.
With about a month left in the snow-building season, the clock is ticking.
Thanks Active NorCal
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