LADWP Hydrographers Report 24% of Normal for 2026 Final April Snow Survey
2026-27 Water Supply Forecast Below Average Snowpack Levels, Proactive Water Management Underway
The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) announced the Eastern Sierra snowpack measured 24 percent of normal, providing key information to prepare for the coming runoff year and plan water deliveries to Los Angeles customers and the Eastern Sierra.
Warmer temperatures prompted snowmelt and runoff to begin earlier than usual, however, this year’s below normal water supply forecast is still expected to meet close to 40 percent of the City’s annual demand. That represents approximately 81 billion gallons of water, enough to supply nearly 43,000 households for an entire year.
“As climate change continues to strain water supplies across the West, water providers face the triple challenge of ensuring reliability, protecting the environment, and keeping water affordable for customers,” said Allan Marks, President, Board of Water and Power Commissioners. “These pressures are interconnected and long‑term, which is why we’re committed to a holistic, strategic approach — including more efficient use, water recycling, and groundwater replenishment — that strengthens operational resilience, supports sustainability, and ensures our city has safe, dependable drinking water for generations to come.”
In addition to the annual snow surveys, the yearly lake level measurements at Mono Lake provide key data to guide decisions on water exports in the region. The official surface elevation reading of Mono Lake was 6,382.75 feet as of April 1, 2026.
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