Snow survey data collected last week across Idaho by the Natural Resources Conservation Service show February continued this winter’s trend of below normal precipitation.
Near record low winter precipitation has resulted in meager snowpacks across the state that range from 55 to 75 percent of average. Hydrologists cite the El Nino weather pattern, where the southwest gets above average snowfall and the Pacific Northwest is dry.
February’s mountain precipitation ranged from 30 to 55 percent of average, adding to below average amounts for November, December and January.
Most reservoirs across the state are storing above average amounts for March 1. However, with well below average streamflow predicted for this summer, irrigation demand will draw down reservoirs to their minimal storage levels by summer’s end and greatly increase the need for good snow next winter.
The Clearwater River Basin had one of the least snowy seasons. The snow index, which combines the total snow water content from 13 SNOTEL sites in the basin, indicates that this March 1st is the third driest since records began in 1961.
The Clearwater Mountains received snow recently but need a phenomenal amount of snow to bring the snow water content to near average by April. Projected streamflow volumes will be low ranging from 55 to 65 percent of average.
Dworshak Reservoir is storing near average amounts and will help supplement the lower summer streamflow levels. (NRCS)
