What is a Snow Drought?

• Snow drought occurs when there is a period of abnormally low snowpack for the time of year in question. 
• Snow drought is described as either dry or warm, depending on whether the drought is a result of below-normal cold-season precipitation (dry) or a lack of snow accumulation despite near-normal precipitation, usually as a result of warm temperatures that cause precipitation to fall as rain rather than snow or an unusually early snowmelt (warm).

Importance of Snowpack

• In winter months, snow that accumulates on the ground and remains frozen is called snowpack.
• Snowmelt from accumulated snowpack is an important source of water for people and ecosystems.
• The depth and density of a snowpack determine how much water is held in a snowpack reservoir.

Impacts of Snow Drought

• Snow drought reduces both summer and winter water availability, impacting the water supply for multiple uses and presenting challenges for water management and flood mitigation strategies.
• Ecosystems receive less water from snowpack in snow drought conditions, which can be disruptive or harmful to wildlife.
• Reductions in snowpack can negatively impact the recreation and tourism industries.