Key takeaways:
- Half of the state is now free of drought or abnormally dry conditions
- Above-normal precipitation, snowpack, and reservoir levels have contributed to the improvement
- Low groundwater levels remain a persistent problem
LOS ANGELES (AP) — California is seeing some relief from drought conditions, with half of the state now free of drought or abnormally dry conditions, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.
The latest survey found that moderate or severe drought covers about 49% of the state, while 17% of the state is free of drought or abnormally dry. The report attributed the improvement to the above-normal precipitation of recent months, above-normal snowpack, and improved reservoir levels.
“The rain has improved California soil moisture and streamflow levels, while the snow has increased mountain snowpack to much above-normal levels,” the report said.
The U.S. Drought Monitor released new data and maps on Thursday portraying the intensity of drought conditions throughout the state. The data showed that the tremendous rains and snowfall since late last year have had a positive impact on the state’s drought conditions.
However, the report also noted that low groundwater levels remain a persistent problem. Groundwater levels are important for sustaining California’s agriculture industry and providing drinking water to many communities.
The report concluded that while the recent rains and snowfall have improved drought conditions in California, more work needs to be done to ensure that the state’s groundwater levels are adequately replenished.
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