The Vanishing Snow: Western US Braces for Historic Drought

The Western United States faced a historic snow drought in the winter of 2026, a concerning trend that has far-reaching consequences for the region. Across much of the West, the snow never materialized, leaving ski resorts to rely heavily on snowmaking and ultimately shutting down their winter operations early.

In Boise, Idaho, where I reside, temperatures soared to the low 80s Fahrenheit (high-20s Celsius) in mid-March, a stark contrast to the region's typical winter weather. The same heat dome sent temperatures skyrocketing to 105°F (40°C) in Phoenix, Arizona.

Ordinarily, water managers and hydrologists like myself who study the Western US expect the mountain snowpacks to be at their fullest around April 1. These snowpacks are natural reservoirs of water that farms and communities depend on through the hot, dry summer.

However, the lack of snowfall in 2026 has water supply managers and fire officials deeply concerned about the upcoming summer. Without the usual snowpack, the region faces the prospect of severe drought and increased wildfire risk, jeopardizing the delicate balance of water resources that sustain the Western US.

The 2026 snow drought is a stark reminder of the profound impact of climate change on the Western United States. As global temperatures continue to rise, such extreme weather events may become more frequent, challenging the region's ability to adapt and thrive. Policymakers, scientists, and local communities must work together to develop innovative solutions to mitigate the effects of this crisis and ensure the long-term sustainability of the West.