Shrinking Sierra Snowpack Spells Another Dry Year for California

The first measure of moisture in the Sierra Snowpack this season does not bode well for West Coast agriculture. A typical reading this time of year reaches around 12 inches. The recent statistic is a mere 10 inches.

“Over the last two weeks, the snow has been good and there have been some strong storms. But we’re certainly not at any point yet in making up for the deficit from the last two years,” senior state meteorologist Elissa Lynn told the San Francisco Chronicle.

Already struggling to make due with only 40 percent of their normal water allowance, farmers in California hope January and February improve the snowpack so they can irrigate their acreage sufficiently. The Sierra Snowpack plays a crucial role, providing water to farms, businesses and residents across the state.

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Source: The San Francisco Chronicle