Snow melt-off in American west stuns scientists

5 hours ago

Record-low snowpack across the American West due to a warm winter and hot March.
Snow water equivalent (SWE) is exceptionally low, with some regions at 8-24% of average.
March heatwave broke records and accelerated snow melt, potentially causing the earliest melt-off on record.
Reservoirs like Lake Mead and Lake Powell are low, raising concerns about water supply and 'deadpool' conditions.
Early water restrictions are being implemented in some areas due to drought conditions.
Low snowpack and early melt increase the risk of an extended and severe wildfire season.
Climate change is exacerbating extreme weather events, leading to hotter, drier conditions in the West.

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