Meteorologists warn of dramatic snow loss across the western US

NOAA reported western U.S. snow cover fell to its lowest levels since satellite records began in 2001, with about 90,646 square miles covered as of Dec. 7; several mountain regions are below half their median snow levels, and officials say a single early-season storm can still change snowpack.

Federal meteorologists report the western United States is experiencing a snow drought after a series of unusually warm storms this season. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said snow cover across the West fell to its lowest levels since satellite records began in 2001. As of Dec. 7, snow covered about 90,646 square miles in the region. Near‑record high temperatures have caused much precipitation to fall as rain rather than accumulate as snow. Key details: - NOAA recorded western snow cover at approximately 90,646 square miles as of Dec. 7, the lowest since satellite records began in 2001. - Snow drought conditions are most severe in California's Sierra Nevada, the Cascade Range in Washington and Oregon, the Blue Mountains of Oregon, and Nevada's Great Basin. - In several mountain areas, current snow levels are reported below 50% of the median. - NOAA noted that snowpack "can change dramatically with a single storm in the early season." Summary: Lower snowpack reduces the season‑long release of water from mountains, which can affect river flows, reservoirs, hydropower, agriculture, and winter tourism. Warmer storms that bring rain instead of snow can increase near‑term runoff and flood risk while reducing water availability later. Undetermined at this time.