Snowpack

Agencies that keep tabs on Northwest rivers and snowpack have been shedding scientists under the Trump administration.

The Seventh Oregon Climate Assessment from state and federal scientists and researchers evaluates the what the future could look like based on increasingly precise forecasts.

Fresh white powder falling onto Northwest mountaintops last month created the perfect conditions for several ski resorts to open early this season.

This year, cooler conditions and increased snowfall have allowed ski resorts in Oregon to open earlier than anticipated.

The approach of April marks a key time of the year. It’s when mountain snow usually peaks across Oregon — offering a hint at the severity of the coming wildfire season and about conditions for farmers who rely on irrigation.

Snow and ice have hit the lowlands across the Northwest lately, but how are we doing up high? What’s the snowpack looking like across Washington and Oregon?

The U.S. Department of Agriculture painted a dire picture of snow packs in its Jan. 1 water outlook report. That report showed that most Oregon snowpacks were well below normal levels.

As most of Oregon’s school districts close for the winter break this week, many families usually head to the slopes, but the lack of snow is keeping people away.

Scientists in Washington recently used NASA satellites to learn more about snow in the mountains.

Researchers in the Northwest are studying dirty snow – and how cleaner snow could someday help with water resources around the world.