Montana Snowpack Levels Much Better Due to Wet Spring Weather

Montana snowpack levels are far above normal due to springtime moisture.

Snowpack levels in western Montana are far above average, according to the latest data in the SNOTEL report.

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The new data shows Gallatin County at 123% of normal, with places further west in Montana like Bitterroot, Lower Clark Fork, and Kootenai at well over 150% of normal.

The numbers listed above are referred to as the snow water equivalent (SWE), SWE is a snowpack measurement used to gauge the amount of liquid water in the snowpack. It equals the amount of water contained within the snowpack when it melts.

Wet spring weather with rain in the valleys and snow at higher elevations has helped to boost snowpack levels throughout Montana. While the recent weather comes as a sign of relief for drought-stricken Montana, it's still important to keep track of your personal water use.

In Bozeman, permanent outdoor water restrictions for residents will take effect on June 16, 2022. All Bozeman residents who irrigate using city water will be required to adhere to a time of day and day of week watering schedule.

If you want to learn more about the restrictions and find out where our water comes from, click here.

Snowpack levels across western Montana look promising as we head into the hot summer months ahead, and more wet weather is in the forecast. Hopefully, all of the spring moisture will hold off the fire season this summer in Montana.

For more information on current snowpack levels in Montana, click here.