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California's Snow Deluge Events Predicted to Decline by 2100 Due to Climate Change

A recent study indicates a significant reduction in extreme snowfall events in California and the wider Western U.S., highlighting the impact of global warming on regional snow patterns.

Emerald Bay snow
Image
Sean de Guzman, right, snow survey manager for the Department of Water Resources, measures the snow with the help of DWR engineer Jacob Kollen for the final snow survey of the season at Phillips Station on April 3, 2023. A new study finds the snow deluge in California, which quickly erased a two decade long megadrought, was essentially a once-in-a-lifetime rescue from above. The study authors coined the term “snow deluge” for one-in-20-year heavy snowfalls. (Hector Amezcua/The Sacramento Bee via AP, File)

Overview

  • Extreme snowfall in California, termed as 'snow deluges', is expected to decrease by 58% by the end of the century.
  • The 2023 record snowfall in California was a rare event, with such high levels of snow accumulation becoming increasingly unlikely.
  • Snow deluges have both positive and negative impacts, including water supply enhancement and potential infrastructure damage.
  • Climate projections show a general decline in snowfall across the Western U.S., affecting water resources and ecosystems.
  • Efforts to adapt to changing snow patterns and reduce greenhouse gas emissions are crucial for mitigating future impacts.