A Canadian study links declining southern Rockies snowpack to worsening water shortages, affecting farms, power, and ecosystems.

A Canadian study reveals a significant decline in snowpack water availability in the southern Rockies, showing that even a 3% drop in snow water equivalent can severely affect water supplies, agriculture, hydroelectric power, and ecosystems. Using satellite data and climate analysis, researchers linked reduced snowpack to past droughts, including the 2015 Okanagan crisis and low Great Lakes levels in 2011. While northern Canada sees increased snowfall from Arctic warming, southern regions face worsening water stress. Scientists warn current water management may be unsustainable and call for improved monitoring and planning, with agencies like the Canada Water Agency and Global Institute for Water Security working on solutions. The research was funded by the Canadian government.