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Environment

Snow Pack Analysis Leaves Hydrologists Optimistic About CA's Water

The California water outlook remains positive this summer. Department of Water Resources hydrologists measured the water content of the snow pack Tuesday.

The snow pack is 124 percent of normal for this time of year, Ted Thomas with the department said. In fact, he said the snow is wetter now than it usually is at the end of the water season next month.

“Water content usually is at its peak on April 1 and already this winter our readings up and down the mountain ranges are above the normal full season reading,” Thomas said.

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The department uses the readings to make decisions about water allocation. Currently the state water project plans to deliver 60 percent of the requested water to farms, homes and businesses. However, Thomas said that may go up, given these new numbers.

Melting Sierra snow provides nearly a third of California’s water supply.

A big decision awaits some voters this April as the race for San Diego County’s Supervisor District 1 seat heats up. Are you ready to vote? Check out the KPBS Voter Hub to learn about the candidates, the key issues the board is facing and how you can make your voice heard.