Sierra snow below average, despite Calif. storms

Posted by MercedSun-Star.com: Local | Filed under Latest Merced News

California's first snow survey of the winter showed the Sierra snowpack below normal Wednesday despite a series of storms that has drenched much of the state and pleased ski resort operators.

The state Department of Water Resources reported the findings from monitors located along the 400-mile-long Sierra Nevada. The snowpack, which is the source for much of the water used by California cities and farms, contains about 85 percent of its usual water content for this time of year.

Sue Sims, the water department's chief deputy director, said the results suggest California may be facing a fourth year of drought.

Comments (0) | December 31st, 2009

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