Snowpack in the Sierra Sits at an Astounding 1,000% of Normal
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The Sierra Nevada Mountains are currently holding a staggering 1,000% of normal snow water equivalents as of July 21, 2023, following a historic winter season.
The last time the Sierra Nevada saw such a significant late summer snowpack was over a decade ago, in 2011, when late spring storms combined with intense snowfall throughout the season contributed to a similar late-summer snow accumulation. Since then, there have been only two other years, 2017 and 2019, when any snowpack was documented in July.
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While these measurements were taken ten days ago, on July 21st, it’s highly likely that the snowpack has decreased significantly since then. Nonetheless, a snowpack that remains 1,000% of normal this late into July is still impressive.
The prolonged presence of so much snow at higher elevations continues to have both positive and negative impacts. High-alpine hiking and other summer activities are affected, while skiing conditions remain fantastic. In fact, Mammoth Mountain remains open for skiing and riding through August 6, boasting a 36″ base at The Summit and a 12″ base at the Main Lodge.
Despite the joy of witnessing abundant snow in July, it’s essential to recognize the ever-changing nature of the Sierra’s snowpack. With persistent extreme drought conditions year after year, such substantial winters are becoming less frequent.