April survey finds no measurable snow, raising concerns for water supplies and fire season
California’s snowpack declined rapidly after a hot, dry March accelerated melting across the Sierra Nevada. During the critical April 1 survey at Phillips Station, state officials found no measurable snow — a rare result for what is typically the peak of the snow season.
Statewide, snowpack is about 18 percent of average, according to the California Department of Water Resources. April 1 normally marks the point when California’s snowpack is at or near its seasonal maximum, storing water that gradually melts into rivers and reservoirs through spring and summer.
This year, however, warm temperatures and dry conditions significantly reduced the snowpack ahead of the April survey. 
“There is actually no measurable snow,” said Andy Reising, manager of the Department of Water Resources’ snow surveys and water supply forecasting unit.
The rapid decline in snowpack could influence water supplies, river flows, and wildfire conditions in the months ahead.
This report is based on a recent press release from the California Department of Water Resources.
