Climate Matters: How much water is in Washington’s snowpack?

Snowpack is an important source of water for Washington. Reservoirs also help store water from snowmelt, releasing it as needed throughout the dry season. This year’s drought has renewed conversations about the amount of water in our snowpack and reservoirs, and just how much we can rely on each for meeting water demand in the future. 

Early June Climate Outlook

Key Messages:

ENSO-neutral conditions are still present, but a transition to El Niño is expected very soon. El Niño is likely to continue to strengthen into the fall. 

The summer (June-August) outlook indicates elevated chances of warmer and drier than normal conditions.  

May 2026 Snowpack and Drought Summary

Key Messages: 

As of early June, the statewide snowpack has nearly melted out. Snowpack is 19% of median as of June 3rd, well below normal for this point in the season. 

May 2026 Climate Summary

Key Messages: 

Temperatures were 2-6°F above normal across the state, marking the 7th consecutive month with above normal statewide temperatures. 

The warmest temperatures relative to normal occurred in the eastern slopes of the Cascades and across central and northeastern Washington.