SNOFLO
 


       

CALIFORNIA SNOW REPORT

February 20 2025
       

California's snowscape is feeling the chill with a mixed bag of conditions across the state. Skiers and snowboarders can carve up the 'epic' powder at resorts like Heavenly Valley and Squaw Valley G.C., where the snowpack depth is looking 'monster' at 56.0 and 85.0 inches respectively. Yet, not all areas are basking in winter's glory; Fallen Leaf is in a snowpack pickle at a meager 3.0 inches. While the forecast isn't promising fresh 'colossal' snowfalls in the coming days, areas like Dismal Swamp and Independence Lake are flaunting a 'brutal' snowpack surplus with depths soaring to 111.0 inches, ensuring plenty of winter wonderland vibes. On the flip side, beware the travel woes as mountain passes may face closures due to snow instability. Cali's winter enthusiasts, it's time to hit those slopes or cozy up by the fire — the state's winter mood is set to 'chill mode'!

Statewide Snowpack 105.0%
of Normal
Coldest Location 30°
Nohrsc Mt Rose Ski Area
Top 5-Day Forecast 2"
Dismal Swamp
Deepest Snowpack 136"
Nohrsc 20H01 - State Line Am (Ca)


Statewide Warnings & Alerts

February 20 2025

Residents of California, please exercise caution as dense fog advisories are in effect until 9 AM PST for Los Angeles County Beaches, Downtown Los Angeles, Palos Verdes Hills, Santa Barbara County Central Coast Beaches, Santa Barbara County Inland Central Coast, the Santa Ynez Valley, Southern Monterey Bay, Big Sur Coast, Salinas and Carmel Valleys, and the Hollister Area. Visibility may drop to a quarter mile or less, creating hazardous driving conditions. Additionally, wind advisories are in place until noon PST for areas including the Santa Clarita Valley, Western San Fernando Valley, Malibu Coast, Interstate 5 Corridor, Ventura County Mountains, San Luis Obispo County Mountains, Santa Barbara County Interior Mountains, Santa Susana Mountains, Western San Gabriel Mountains, and the Santa Monica Mountains Recreation Area with gusts up to 50 mph possible. Unsecured objects may be blown around, and there is a risk of tree limbs falling and potential power outages. Please stay indoors if possible and exercise extreme caution if travel is necessary.


About California



Snowpack conditions in California vary across different mountain ranges that supply snow for the state's water resources. The Sierra Nevada range is a crucial source, with snowpack providing nearly one-third of the state's water supply. The snowpack in the Sierra Nevada is measured by the California Department of Water Resources via manual surveys and electronic sensors known as snow telemetry (SNOTEL) sites. Other mountain ranges, such as the Cascades and the Siskiyou Mountains, also contribute to California's snowpack.

Snowpack runoff from these mountains feeds into several important rivers and watersheds, including the Sacramento River, San Joaquin River, and the Colorado River. These watersheds supply water for agriculture, drinking water, and hydroelectric power.

California's winter climate is characterized by periodic storms known as "atmospheric rivers," which bring heavy precipitation and contribute to snow accumulation. However, climate change poses a threat to the state's snowpack, as rising temperatures may lead to more rainfall than snowfall, altering the timing and quantity of water supply.

Interesting facts about snow science and history in California include the development of advanced techniques to measure snowpack, such as airborne laser scanning (LiDAR), which provides detailed information about the snowpack's depth and density. Additionally, the 2015 snowpack was historically low, reaching only 5% of the average due to severe drought conditions. Overall, accurate and up-to-date information on snowpack conditions is crucial for managing California's water resources effectively.

Snowpack Distribution


       

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