Overview
- The latest U.S. Drought Monitor, based on conditions through Jan. 6, shows 0% of California in drought or abnormally dry status, making it the only state fully drought-free.
- A run of late-December and early-January storms and atmospheric rivers delivered well-above-average precipitation, with statewide totals at roughly 155% of average for this point in the water year.
- Major reservoirs rebounded strongly, with 14 of the state’s 17 primary water supply reservoirs at 70% or more capacity and overall storage reported around 129% to 130% of average for the date.
- Snowpack has improved but remains below historical norms in many measures, including a statewide snow-water equivalent near 71% of average at the end of December and about 89% of normal reported Friday.
- Forecasters note a near-term dry spell and emphasize that drought designations are updated weekly, with scientists warning that groundwater deficits and weather whiplash remain longer-term concerns.