A winter storm is moving across the Sierra Nevada, bringing fresh snowfall that could help boost California’s declining snowpack after weeks of dry weather.
The storm is expected to impact the state from Tuesday through Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service.
On average, the Sierra snowpack supplies about 30% of California’s water needs and is often referred to as the state’s “frozen reservoir”.
January is typically California’s wettest month, but this year it was unusually dry, eroding earlier snowpack gains. While the current system could help, officials caution that it will become harder to close the gap as winter progresses.
Just three weeks ago, the statewide snowpack stood at 89% of average after a series of atmospheric rivers boosted early-season totals. A dry January has since eroded those gains.
During its second snow survey of the season in February, the California Department of Water Resources recorded 23 inches of snow depth at Phillips Station, with a snow water equivalent of 8 inches, which is 46% of average for that location. Statewide, the snowpack is 59% of average for this date.
Electronic readings from 130 monitoring stations across the Sierra show a statewide snow water equivalent of 9.7 inches, or 59% of average for this date, compared to 67% at this time last year. Officials warn that with winter now two-thirds complete, it becomes increasingly difficult to make up for below-average conditions.
January, February, and March are typically the Sierra’s largest snow-producing months, and much of that window has already passed.
Weather forecasters say the current system could bring moderate to heavy snowfall to higher elevations of the Sierra from Tuesday into Wednesday. Northern California is forecast to receive beneficial rain and snow, while parts of Southern California may see showers by midweek.
The storm is associated with an upper-level system moving south along the West Coast, marking a shift after weeks of dry and mild conditions.
Despite declining snow levels, major reservoirs remain in strong condition at 126% of average for this time of year, supported by precipitation from recent years and efforts to capture and store water.
Why Does Snowpack Matter to California?
The long-term water supply depends heavily on Sierra snow as the snowpack releases water gradually with rising temperature, helping maintain river flows and water deliveries through the warmer months.
Snowpack plays a central role in California’s water system. It stores winter precipitation and releases it gradually, reducing flood risk and sustaining water supplies during dry seasons.
Additionally, agriculture relies on snowmelt to irrigate crops, hydropower facilities depend on runoff to generate electricity, and aquatic ecosystems require consistent flows to remain healthy.
Snowpack also provides a measure of protection during drought by acting as a reserve when rainfall is limited.
Officials monitor snowpack trends closely because they reflect broader shifts in weather patterns. In recent years, California has experienced extended dry weathers interrupted by intense storms, leading to greater swings from wet to dry conditions.
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