Where Climate Change Means Diminished Snowpacks, Water Supplies

A new study by researchers at Columbia University estimates how predicted changes in the levels and locations of snowfall will affect water supplies.

1 minute read

November 29, 2015, 9:00 AM PST

By James Brasuell @CasualBrasuell

Sindya N. Bhanoo reports on a new study lead by Justin S. Mankin, analyzing 421 drainage basins in the Northern Hemisphere that depend for models of how climate change might affect water supplies.

Worldwide, the study's findings indicate that "97 basins, currently serving two billion people, depend heavily on snowmelt. The scientists calculated that the likelihood the basins would receive less snow in the coming century was 67 percent." The two basins most at risk in the United States are already experiencing historic droughts. According to the study, "[t]he most sensitive basins in the United States include those in Northern and Central California, and those of the Colorado and Rio Grande rivers."

FULL STORY: Billions of People Depend on Water From Shrinking Snowpacks

Tuesday, November 17, 2015 in The New York Times

Environment Arizona California Nevada Water Supply Snowpack Drought Climate Change View More

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