NASA Data Enhances River Forecasts Amid 2026 Snow Drought
NASA Data Enhances River Forecasts Amid 2026 Snow Drought
US · Published Aug 20, 2026
The 2026 snow drought in the western United States has significantly impacted water resources, with NASA Earth data playing a critical role in mitigating its effects. Tacoma Power, a public utility in Washington state, is leveraging machine-learning river-flow forecasts powered by NASA satellite data to manage water and power resources on the Cowlitz River. These forecasts, updated every two hours, integrate weather predictions, river measurements, and satellite observations of snow cover and vegetation. The winter of 2025-26 saw unusually low snowpack levels, with snow cover at just 20% to 50% of normal, leading to a drought emergency in Washington by April
NASA's data has been instrumental in helping utilities like Tacoma Power prepare for extreme weather events, manage reservoirs, and ensure reliable hydropower generation.

Impact & Risks

The snow drought has created significant challenges for water and power management in the western U.S., particularly in Washington state. Low snowpack levels have reduced water availability, impacting hydropower generation, aquatic habitats, and public water supplies. Tacoma Power faced one of the largest one-day inflow surges in December 2025 due to an atmospheric river, followed by a dry spring that left reservoirs at risk of depletion. These conditions highlight the vulnerability of water systems to climate variability and the importance of advanced forecasting tools to mitigate risks.

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