water supply

Cold nights are important for preserving snowpack and making snow at ski resorts. Climate change is affecting both.

A new snow drought update shows record-low snow cover across much of the western U.S., with warm temperatures and rain replacing snow. Experts warn that low snowpack could worsen water supply concerns and impact recreation if conditions don’t improve.

Forecasters say La Niña remains in place, but a shift to neutral conditions later this winter could shape snowpack and water supplies.

Farm leaders warn of mounting losses as trade tensions, global beef markets, and low snowpack threaten agricultural stability heading into 2026.

The Upper Arkansas Basin in the central part of the state is currently the driest, with about 49% of the normal snowpack.

Warmer temperatures in November meant that less snowpack accumulated. But storms did increase soil moisture in the Upper Colorado River Basin, making future precipitation more likely to run off slopesides and boost rivers and streams.

About 65% of the Western U.S. is in drought, with Lake Mead and Lake Powell below one-third full. Experts warn the region may face a deeper water crisis without multiple strong snow seasons.

The National Weather Service projects a brief La Niña this fall, with drought persisting across the Four Corners. McPhee Reservoir sits 16.5 feet lower than last year.

Unusually fast snowmelt is triggering drought conditions and early fire risks across the West, with runoff declining and water forecasts revised downward for key river basins.

Colorado's snowpack is a mixed bag as January ends, with some river basins below normal levels. Meanwhile, tariffs on agricultural goods threaten U.S.-Canada-Mexico trade.