·

Massive snowfall results in California’s largest snowpack on record

sierra nevada snowpack march 31 2023 f

17 atmospheric rivers and several non-atmospheric-river storms since December 2022 pushed California’s snowpack to its largest level in recorded history, surpassing the previous record set in 1982-1983. In addition, the state’s drought conditions have improved significantly since the start of the water year, with severe to exceptional drought conditions now covering only 6.99% of the area, down from 93% just one year ago.

California now boasts its largest snowpack in recorded history, with a statewide snowpack of 236% of the peak normal and nearly 300% in the Southern Sierra. As of March 30, 2023, the California Department of Water Resources reports that the statewide average snow water content stands at 154.4 cm (60.8 inches), breaking the previous record of 153.2 cm (60.3 inches) set in May 1983.

The latest in the series of storms that started in December 2022 brought an additional 0.3 to 0.6 m (1 to 2 feet) of snow to the Sierra Nevada, culminating in the record-breaking snowpack on March 30, 2023. The previous record was held by the 1982/83 season with 234% (central Sierra) and 298% (southern Sierra) of normal snowpack levels.

The Northern Sierra region experienced comparatively less snow, with snow water content at 190% of normal, still trailing the levels recorded in 1982-83.

Unprecedented snowfall at ski resorts in the Sierra Nevada led to extraordinary heights, in some cases even burying chairlifts. Mammoth Mountain announced its snowiest season on record with 1 783 cm (702 inches) at its Main Lodge, surpassing the previous record of 1 698 cm (668.5 inches). At the mountain’s summit, Mammoth measured 2 232 cm (879 inches). The National Weather Service’s gridded snowfall analysis suggests that some totals exceeded 2 286 cm (900 inches) in the snowiest areas of the Sierra.

The Central Sierra Snow Lab, located near Lake Tahoe, recorded a seasonal total of 1 813 cm (713.8 inches) after the latest storm, making it the second most on record.

Although snowpack typically peaks around this time of the year, resorts in the Sierra can expect an additional 0.9 to 1.8 m (3 to 6 feet) of snow on average through the end of the season in May or June, suggesting that these totals may continue to climb and set new records.

statewide snow water content california march 30 2023
Data valid: March 30, 2023

Looking at the latest data provided by the US Drought Monitor, we can see that the state’s drought conditions have improved significantly since the start of the water year (September 27, 2022), with severe to exceptional drought conditions covering only 1.95% of the area, as of March 28. In contrast, one year ago, severe to exceptional drought conditions covered over 93% of the area.

WeekDateNoneD0-D4D1-D4D2-D4D3-D4D4DSCI
CurrentMarch 28, 202355.3444.6628.111.950.000.0075
Last WeekMarch 21, 202348.5151.4935.888.490.000.0096
3 Months AgoDecember 27, 20220.00100.0097.9480.5635.507.16321
Start of Calendar YearDecember 27, 20220.00100.0097.9480.5635.507.16321
Start of Water YearSeptember 27, 20220.00100.0099.7694.0140.9116.57351
One Year AgoMarch 29, 20220.00100.00100.0093.6540.250.00334
Drought Monitor – California. Data valid March 28, 2023

The Drought Severity Index (DSCI) for California is currently at 75, indicating a relatively mild drought. This is a significant improvement compared to one year ago when the DSCI was at 334, indicating severe and extensive drought conditions.

The severe drought conditions that California experienced one year ago had significant implications for the state’s economy, environment, and communities. The lack of rainfall and snowpack led to reduced water supplies for agriculture and drinking water, increased wildfire risks, and negative impacts on natural ecosystems.

california drought monitor march 30 2023 map

References:

1 CDEC – California Department of Water Resources – March 30, 2023

2 California’s snowpack soars to record high after 17 atmospheric rivers – The Washington Post – March 30, 2023

3 California drought monitor – March 30, 2023

Featured image credit: NASA Terra/MODIS. Acquired on March 31, 2023

Share:

Commenting rules and guidelines

We value the thoughts and opinions of our readers and welcome healthy discussions on our website. In order to maintain a respectful and positive community, we ask that all commenters follow these rules:

  • Treat others with kindness and respect.
  • Stay on topic and contribute to the conversation in a meaningful way.
  • Do not use abusive or hateful language.
  • Do not spam or promote unrelated products or services.
  • Do not post any personal information or content that is illegal, obscene, or otherwise inappropriate.

We reserve the right to remove any comments that violate these rules. By commenting on our website, you agree to abide by these guidelines. Thank you for helping to create a positive and welcoming environment for all.

Leave a reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *