California faces an elevated drought risk as mountain snowpack drops to as low as 0% in some areas due to a warm spring. - Snowpack in Northern Sierras and Cascades is at 0% of average, Central Sierras at 4%, Southern Sierras at 15%.
- Warm storms brought rain instead of snow, washing away lower-altitude snowpack. - Reservoirs are currently full but rely on meltwater for summer and autumn supplies.
- Drought will first impact agriculture, rural wells, and wildlife; urban areas may feel effects later. The situation underscores the urgent need for water conservation and preparedness across the state.