Why is Denver's first snowfall so late in 2025?

Denver experienced its latest first measurable snowfall on record on November 29, 2025, indicating a slow start to the winter season.

How does climate change affect Western U.S. snowfall?

Rising temperatures due to climate change are causing reduced snowfall and earlier snowmelt in the western U.S., impacting long-term snowpack.

What are the water supply concerns for the western U.S.?

Reduced snowpack threatens crucial water supplies for agriculture and hydropower, as western infrastructure was built assuming consistent mountain snow reservoirs.

Home / Weather / West's Snow Drought: Ski Season Off to Slow Start

West's Snow Drought: Ski Season Off to Slow Start

2 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Western U.S. snowpack was significantly below normal by early December 2025.
Climate change is causing decreased snowfall and earlier melt in the West.
Reduced snowpack threatens water supplies for agriculture and hydropower.

West's Snow Drought: Ski Season Off to Slow Start

As of early December 2025, the western United States is experiencing an unusually slow start to its ski season, with snowpack levels far below average. This delayed onset is attributed by experts to the broader impacts of climate change on regional weather patterns. Rising global temperatures are directly influencing snowfall amounts and the timing of snowmelt across the West.

The consequences of this reduced snowpack extend beyond recreational skiing. For regions like California, which rely on mountain snow for a significant portion of their annual water supply, this presents a serious challenge. Earlier snowmelt and increased rain-on-snow events complicate water management, forcing difficult decisions about reservoir storage and flood control.