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3w ago

Late-Season Snowstorms Boost Sierra Nevada Snowpack and Tahoe Ski Season

California's Sierra Nevada snowpack reaches 90% of the historical average, with storms bringing additional snowfall and improving water supplies and ski conditions.

A steady snow falls at Palisades Tahoe on April 1, 2025.
A steady snow falls at Palisades Tahoe on April 1, 2025.
Skiers and snowboarders pack a ski lift at Palisades Tahoe on March 31, 2025, during a snowfall.
California Department of Water Resources staff (from left) Angelique Fabbiani-Leon, State Hydrometeorologist, Manon von Kaenel, Water Resources Engineer, Jordan Thoennes, Water Resources Engineer, and Andy Reising, Snow Surveys and Water Supply Forecasting Unit Manager, conduct the first media snow survey of the 2025 season at Phillips Station in the Sierra Nevada. The survey is held approximately 90 miles east of Sacramento off Highway 50 in El Dorado County. Photo taken January 2, 2025.

Overview

  • The Sierra Nevada snowpack, a critical water source for California, stands at 90% of the historical average as of April 1, 2025, up significantly from last year's 38%.
  • Late-season snowstorms are expected to add several feet of snow, potentially bringing the snowpack closer to 100% in some areas.
  • Northern Sierra snowpack levels are at 108% of average, while the central and southern Sierra lag at 83% and 81%, highlighting regional disparities.
  • Reservoir levels are well above average, with Lake Shasta at 111% and Lake Oroville at 120% of their historical capacities for this date.
  • Tahoe ski resorts are benefiting from heavy snowfall, extending the ski season and reporting strong conditions for visitors.