The Sierra Nevada snowpack has fallen to 59% of its historical average after weeks of sunny weather following Christmas storms. Experts note that full reservoirs and the remaining winter months mitigate concerns. Ski resorts continue to operate smoothly with artificial snow support.
The Sierra Nevada snowpack, vital for nearly one-third of California's water supply, peaked at 93% of average on January 6 after heavy Christmas Eve storms dumped 7 to 8 feet of snow in the Lake Tahoe area. However, three weeks of warm, sunny conditions have reduced it to 59% by January 29, with meteorologist Jan Null reporting 23 days without significant storms and none forecast for the next week.
Despite the decline, experts emphasize it's not alarming. The past three winters brought above-average precipitation, ending the 2020-2022 drought and filling reservoirs. Shasta Reservoir rose 36 feet between mid-December and early January, reaching 80% capacity or 125% of normal. Oroville climbed 69 feet to 82% full, or 138% of normal, while San Luis stands at 77% (105% normal) and Diamond Valley at 95%.
"It would be a different conversation if the reservoirs were below average," Null said. Winter precipitation typically peaks in December through March, leaving ample time for recovery. Ski industry leader John Rice called it "only the fourth inning," noting the Christmas "miracle" storms built a solid base for resorts, supplemented by snowmaking. No part of California faces drought, per the U.S. Drought Monitor, unlike much of the West.
A high-pressure ridge off the coast has diverted storms northward, but forecaster Bryan Allegretto sees potential for wetter patterns by mid-February. On January 30, the Department of Water Resources will conduct a snow survey at Phillips Station near Sierra-at-Tahoe. While low snow could raise wildfire risks if dry weather persists, current conditions support water security and recreation.
