Oregon Snowpack Hits Record Lows at Crater Lake

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Snowpack levels at Crater Lake in southern Oregon have fallen to record lows, just 22% of the typical seasonal peak. Current snow depth sits at 17 inches, dramatically below the normal 118 inches for this time of year. The steep deficit across the southern Oregon Cascades could impact water supply, irrigation, and increase fire danger earlier in the season.

Why it matters

Crater Lake's snowpack is a critical water source for the region, and these record-low levels raise immediate concerns about water availability and heightened wildfire risk as Oregon heads into the summer. Low snowpack can lead to reduced reservoir levels, less irrigation supply, and an earlier start to the wildfire season.

The details

According to the National Weather Service in Medford, the snow water equivalent at Annie Springs measured just 22% of its typical seasonal peak as of Saturday. The current 17-inch snow depth is dramatically below the normal 118 inches for this time of year and even under the previous daily record low of 32 inches set in 2015. The data shows a steep deficit across the southern Oregon Cascades, where snowpack typically builds through April. Areas surrounding Crater Lake, including higher elevations in Jackson and Klamath counties, are already tracking well below historical averages.

• As of Saturday, March 28, 2026, the snowpack at Crater Lake was measured at just 22% of its typical seasonal peak.
• The current snow depth at Crater Lake sits at 17 inches, dramatically below the normal 118 inches for this time of year.

What’s next

Residents and water managers should prepare for tighter water conditions and monitor updates as the spring snow season continues. Additional snow is expected in the Cascades by early April, but it may not be enough to reverse the deficit.