Washington Faces Water Crisis as Snowpack Shrinks

The Pacific Northwest's reliance on snowpack for drinking water and hydropower is challenged by climate change, with snow turning to rain and melting earlier.

• Washington's snowpack has decreased by a third since 1955, with projections of up to 70% more reduction by the 2080s.
• The shift from snow to rain and earlier melting periods are straining water and power supplies, leading to more frequent water restrictions and higher utility rates.
• Seattle Public Utilities and Seattle City Light are exploring costly measures to adapt, including diversifying water sources and investing in renewable energy.
• Climate change impacts extend beyond water and power, affecting agriculture, biodiversity, and increasing the risk of wildfires and floods.
• The Seattle Times launches Climate Lab to explore and report on the effects of climate change in the Pacific Northwest and beyond.

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