🏜️ California Drought-free for First Time in 25 Years

🏜️ California Drought-free for First Time in 25 Years

California is completely free of drought for the first time in 25 years after winter storms brought large amounts of rain and snow to the region. The last time California had no areas considered “abnormally dry” or in drought conditions was in December of 2000. Recent heavy rains pushed California’s 17 major reservoirs to 129% of their average levels. The wet winter has boosted California’s snowpack, which is crucial to its water supply. However, statewide snow-water equivalent is still only at 71% of its average for this time of year. Local officials are still optimistic though, as January, February, and March are the biggest snow producing months for the state. Nearby states such as Nevada, Utah, and Colorado have been struggling with dry conditions and low snow levels. More than 80% of monitoring stations across Washington, Oregon, Colorado, Arizona, and New Mexico are recording a “snow drought”.

Denise Chow, NBC News

📝 Dartmouth Professors to Lead Major Global Climate Policy Initiatives

Three Dartmouth faculty members were recently appointed to leadership roles for major global climate policy initiatives. Erin Mayfield is a lead author for the Seventh Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, an organization under the United Nations that recommends measures for mitigating climate change. She is helping lead the Working Group III report, which will focus on curtailing greenhouse gas emissions and removing them from the atmosphere. Melody Brown Burkins is representing the United States as one of seven international experts compiling a report on critical issues facing the global Arctic such as rapid environmental transformation, emerging pollution pressures, and climate tipping points. Hélène Seroussi is leading the science team modeling the evolution of the Antarctic ice sheet.

Morgan Kelly, Dartmouth

🏠 Zillow Removes Climate Risk Data from Website

Zillow, the nation’s leading real estate website, removed a popular tool displaying First Street climate risk data to homebuyers. Flood, wildfire, wind, heat, and air quality factors were all removed from the site, despite exposure to these events increasing due to climate change. Both independent academic research and research conducted by Zillow found that disclosing flood risk can decrease the price of a home. Zillow says they remain committed to providing consumers with information that helps them make informed real estate decisions, and will instead provide a hyperlink to the climate risk data. Other real estate sites like Homes.com, Redfin, and Realtor.com continue to show First Street climate risk data in their realty listings.

Claire Barber, Inside Climate News

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