Across the Nation

Published February 17 2025
The nation is currently experiencing a complex set of weather-related challenges, including significant snowfall, fluctuating streamflow levels, and potential avalanche risks in various regions. As we delve into the specifics, we observe that reservoir levels across the country indicate a mix of surpluses and deficits. For instance, LAKE WINNIPESAUKEE AT WEIRS BEACH in New Hampshire is below average at 3 ft compared to its average of 3.77 ft, potentially affecting local water supply and recreational activities. On the other hand, BLOOMINGTON LAKE NEAR ELK GARDEN in Maryland is above its average, indicating a surplus that could be advantageous in water management and hydroelectric power generation.

Streamflow levels also vary, with the MAURICE R AT UNION LAKE DAM AT MILLVILLE NJ reporting a current level significantly below its average, which may impact water availability downstream. In contrast, the GENERAL EDGAR JADWIN RESERVOIR in Pennsylvania is slightly above its average, suggesting a healthy water flow situation.

Avalanche warnings have been issued for numerous areas, suggesting that ski resorts and mountain communities must be vigilant. Recreational activities like skiing and hiking in these regions should be approached with caution. Meanwhile, fresh snowfall has been observed in regions like Oregon and California, which is beneficial for ski areas, but also increases the risk of avalanches.

In summary, the country is experiencing a mixed bag of water-related conditions, with some areas facing shortages and others with ample water supply. Major cities, rivers, and ski areas need to adapt to these varying conditions, remaining alert to avalanche dangers and prepared for the impact of weather fluctuations on water management and outdoor activities. The recent snowfall presents both opportunities for winter sports and challenges in terms of avalanche risks, requiring a careful and informed approach to outdoor activities.

Warnings & Alerts

As the nation grapples with a myriad of weather-induced challenges, communities across the United States are battling nature's elements with resilience and fortitude. In California, wildfires have scorched the southern regions, prompting the activation of shelters for those affected, highlighting the relentless spirit of Californians in times of adversity. Meanwhile, the once tranquil rivers of Kentucky have transformed into torrents of destruction, claiming at least 11 lives as widespread flooding grips the Bluegrass State. The ceaseless rain has resulted in heart-wrenching losses, with the Courier Journal chronicling the narratives of the victims. Notably, in Pikeville, a town already battered by nature's fury, over 50 swift water rescues have been reported by CBS News, underscoring the relentless battle against rising waters.

Elsewhere, the Eastern seaboard braces against howling gales as storm warnings are in effect for states like New York and Maine, where gusts could reach up to 55 knots and waves tower between 8 to 17 feet high. The residents of Central Virginia, still reeling from recent flooding, now fix their eyes on the skies, awaiting a winter storm that threatens to blanket their world in white, as reported by WRIC ABC 8News. Richmond has proactively activated the Dock Street floodwall, a testament to the city's preparedness and dedication to safeguard its citizens. As these events unfold and communities from Tennessee to Mississippi brace for winter's onslaught, it's clear that cooperation, preparation, and the indomitable human spirit are our greatest assets in the face of nature's unpredictability.

Avalanche Outlook

The nation's mountain ranges are currently under a patchwork of avalanche warnings and advisories, highlighting the importance of caution and preparedness when venturing into potential avalanche terrain. Many ski resorts and backcountry areas across various states, including Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, and New Hampshire, are experiencing elevated avalanche risks. In particular, the Colorado Avalanche Information Center has issued high avalanche danger warnings for multiple zones, strongly advising against travel in avalanche terrain. Similarly, Utah's mountain ranges, including the Logan, Ogden, Provo, ...
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Reservoirs & Dams

In the latest comprehensive survey of dam and reservoir conditions across the nation, a pattern of fluctuating water storage levels emerges, influenced by regional climate variations, water management practices, and long-term climate change effects. While some reservoirs are experiencing higher-than-average storage levels, others are significantly below their average, reflecting the challenges facing water resource managers in ensuring a stable water supply amidst changing environmental conditions.

Among notable observations, Lake Mead in Nevada and Lake Powell in Arizona, two of ...
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Ski Area Conditions

As we move into mid-week, winter sports enthusiasts are eyeing the Pacific Northwest with great interest, where a fresh blanket of snow is revitalizing the slopes. Oregon, particularly, stands out with heavy snowfall recorded and forecasted in several locations. The latest observations show that Crazyman Flat tops the charts with an impressive 37 inches of new snow and a 70-inch base, with nearby Mt. Hood resorts such as Timberline Lodge and Mt. Hood Meadows likely benefitting from these conditions. Snow ...
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River Levels

Across the nation, river enthusiasts and water management researchers are on alert as recent data reveals a mix of unusually high streamflows and drought conditions. Cities along the mighty Mississippi River, such as Memphis, TN, and Baton Rouge, LA, are witnessing above-average streamflows, with gauges reporting significant increases compared to historical norms. Meanwhile, Kentucky's rivers, including the Kentucky, Ohio, and Licking, are also experiencing swollen banks indicative of abnormally high streamflows, impacting local fishing and rafting activities.

In contrast, ...
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Snowpack & Snowfall Totals

As the winter season presses on, snow enthusiasts are reveling in a fresh layer of powder blanketing much of the nation's mountainous regions, with recent 24-hour snowfall totals causing excitement among ski resorts and city dwellers alike. Oregon has emerged as the clear winner in this snowy jackpot, particularly at Crazyman Flat, which has seen a staggering 37 inches of new snow, boasting a solid 70-inch base. Not far behind, California's Mumbo Basin Raws and Stouts Meadow Goes have reported ...
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Flood Monitoring

Communities across the nation are grappling with severe flooding as streamflow measurements skyrocket well above normal levels, prompting emergency responses and a strain on federal resources. The Upper Mississippi-Cape Girardeau region has observed a staggering 1218% increase in normal streamflow, while areas like Big Muddy and South Fork Kentucky face similar crises at 1936% and 939% above average, respectively. As a result, towns such as Cape Girardeau and nearby river communities are at risk of catastrophic water levels, threatening homes, ...
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About SNOFLO

Snoflo provides real-time climate and hydrology information for various regions in the United States. We analyze data from a multitude of sources such as snow telemetry sites, streamgauges, automated weather stations, and a multitude of other data sources to provide users with accurate and up-to-date climate and recreation data.

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