Snowmelt from the Sierra Nevada provides a significant source of water for California.

The Sierra Nevada plays a crucial role in California's water supply. During the winter, heavy snowfall accumulates in the mountains. As temperatures warm in the spring and summer, this snow melts gradually, providing a steady and reliable source of water for:

Agriculture: Irrigation for crops throughout California.
Urban areas: Drinking water for millions of residents.
Hydroelectricity: Generating hydroelectric power.

The Sierra Nevada's snowpack acts as a natural reservoir, storing water during the winter and releasing it gradually throughout the year. This is crucial for California, a state that experiences significant seasonal variations in rainfall and faces challenges related to water availability, especially during periods of drought.