WATER CONTENT OF CALIFORNIA'S SNOWPACK IS WELL BELOW NORMAL, BUT A NEW ROUND OF STORMS APPROACHES
On Tuesday, California state officials reported that the water content of the mountain snowpack was slightly over half of the normal average, showing a modest increase from January 1st but still significantly below usual levels. According to the California Department of Water Resources, electronic measurements statewide indicated a snow water equivalent of 8.4 inches (21.3 centimeters), representing 52% of the average to date. Karla Nemeth, the department's Director, commented on the situation, noting that this year's El Niño has resulted in below-average precipitation and a reduced snowpack. She emphasized the importance of Californians preparing for all potential conditions during the remainder of the rainy season. This year's findings stand in stark contrast to the previous winter, which saw abundant precipitation from atmospheric rivers, resulting in substantial snow accumulation in the mountains, increased river levels, and replenished reservoirs following years of drought. At Phillips Station in the Sierra Nevada, state water officials conducted the second snow survey of the season using manual measuring devices. The survey revealed a snow depth of 29 inches (73.6 cm) and a snow water content of 10 inches (25.4 cm), equivalent to 58% of the average to date.
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