An expert reveals a phenomenon affecting winter weather in the United States: “much lower than average”

Winter may have arrived, but conditions point to the Cascade region of western North America Different story.

What is happening?

Researchers He said An ongoing “snow drought” has left the mountains unusually bare, even after powerful storms brought rain but higher temperatures, according to the American “space” website. Kiro.

According to federal data and local researchers, November It was the warmest on record in the Cascades, bringing storm surges that would normally deposit snow as rain instead, including a recent atmospheric river that dumped Nearly 5 trillion gallons of rain across the Pacific Northwest. Despite recent strong storms, snow levels remain well below normal.

“A lot of the waterfalls in Oregon had less than 20 percent of the average snowpack and a little better in Washington, but still well below average,” said Dan McEvoy, a researcher at the Western Regional Climate Center. Kiro In mid-December.

All over Washington, mostly Remote snow measurement Stations reported less than 50% of average snow water equivalent, according to National Integrated Drought Information System. The Upper Columbia, Yakima and Puget Sound basins are all tracking well below seasonal norms.

Snow drought conditions are less severe in north-central and northeastern Washington, but experts say the broader pattern of warmer winters is reshaping how and when snow forms.

Why is snow drought a concern?

Many small towns and communities in the Cascade Range region depend on consistent and predictable snowpacks each year to earn a living through winter tourism and snow sports.

Artificial snow can be used on slopes, but it is an expensive procedure, costing thousands Millions annually. Rising global temperatures are costing the ski industry even more $250 million annually.

Besides its direct economic benefits, snowpack acts as a reservoir for fresh water that arrives slowly during the spring and summer when rainfall falls. When rain replaces snow in winter, it falls from the mountains quickly, increasing flood risk and reducing water availability later in the year.

While individual warm periods or storms are considered normal, scientists say… Increasing frequency Reflects snow drought a Bigger style Driven by rising global temperatures By human activitywhich charges severe weather events.

What is being done about these conditions?

In the short term, forecasters say conditions may change. McEvoy He said Kero said just a few cold, wet storms could quickly replenish the snowpack if temperatures cooperate. However, The Weather Channel I mentioned Oregon’s Cascades region will still have below-average snowpack at the start of 2026, according to the National Resources Conservation Service.

For cities and communities, adaptation is key. Investing in water diversion programmes, Snow collection At the end of the season for the upcoming season, reducing air pollution by adopting clean energy are critical steps to slowing rising temperatures and restoring snow.

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