"California's Sierra Nevada Faces Historic Snowpack Shortfall Amid El Niño Season"
California is experiencing a "snow drought" despite recent storms, with the Sierra Nevada snowpack at record low levels for early January. The lack of snow is concerning due to its impact on the state's water supply, which relies on snowmelt for nearly a third of its water. Recent precipitation has fallen as rain rather than snow due to warmer conditions, potentially influenced by El Niño and climate change. While major reservoirs have seen some replenishment, the snowpack is only at 25% of the average for the date. Upcoming colder storms may improve the situation, but overall snowpack levels are expected to remain below average. State officials are preparing for various scenarios, including potential extreme weather events.