California snowpack clawing back to average as spring approaches

SHAVER LAKE, Calif. – California’s snowpack is on the rebound. After several lackluster winter months, March is starting to make up the difference in California’s below -average water and snowpack levels.

The Sierra Nevada are noticeably snowcapped and Shaver Lake local Michael Smith is happy for the change in scenery.

“We need it and we can have more and it’s really nice to see this time of year,” Smith said.

At the start of 2025, the statewide snowpack was at a dismal 39% of its April 1 average. Just two months later, the snowpack shot up to 79% of its April 1 average.

The California Data Exchange Center uses April 1 to compare the current snowpack level to prior years. This is the when snowpack reaches its peak and snowmelt begins, continuing through the summer and fall.

During the winter months, rain fills valley reservoirs. When spring turns to summer, the snowmelt keeps reservoir levels stable and aqueducts filled.

After two consecutive winters of consistent, above-average rain and snow for California, this year has been a stark contrast.

The recent snowfall is a relief to southern and central California where drought is a constant concern, especially in years when those regions receive minimal precipitation through the first half of winter.

Elijah Kessler has lived in California his entire life. He’s been through many drought periods, this year he is thankful for the recent storms.

“California’s been in and out of droughts my whole life,” Kessler said. “So, it’s good to see we are retaining some water, retaining some snow and that things are starting to turn green again.”

Beyond the hydrological implications, the snowpack is a crucial variable in California’s economy.

Data from the United States Geological Survey shows 75% of California’s irrigated land is in the Central Valley — the largest ag-producing region on the country.

When the snowpack is low, farmers and growers use groundwater recharge basins to cover the deficit, but it is a finite supply.

Water strain leads to growing difficulties in the Central Valley and the impacts can trickle down to grocery stores nationwide.

However, forecasts show more snow is on tap through next week.

The National Weather Service in Hanford issued a Winter Storm Watch for the Sierra Nevada through Thursday evening.

The National Weather Service expects one to three feet of snow above 4,000 feet and possibly more at higher elevations.

Lighter snow accumulations are possible this weekend into early next week as well.

With the prospect of more snow on the horizon, Smith remains hopeful for a miracle March.

“I sure hope so and fill up the reservoirs cause they need some more water in them,” Smith said.