Sierra Nevada Snowpack at 18% of Normal, Second-Lowest in History
• Sierra Nevada snowpack is at 18% of its historical average, the second-lowest level on record.
• California is not currently in a drought due to full reservoirs from the past three wet years.
• Early snow melt caused by high March temperatures raises concerns about fire risk and water resource strain.
Sierra Nevada snowpack at concerning low level
As of April 1, 2026, the Sierra Nevada snowpack, a crucial water source for California, is at a concerning 18% of its historical average, marking the second-lowest level ever recorded, only surpassed by the 5% in 2015.
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