Snowpack

Pueblo County farmers are adjusting to drought conditions caused by historically low snowpack reducing Arkansas River water supply. Milberger Farms, relying on the Bessemer Ditch, is leaving fields bare and spreading crops across multiple locations to conserve water, with melons and other crops affected but chilis remaining unaffected.

A father and his 18-month-old son were rescued by helicopter from a snowy Sierra trail near Freel Peak, a 10,881-foot summit above 10,000 feet, as authorities warned about dangerous weather conditions. The rescue occurred despite lingering snowpack in the high country, highlighting risks for hikers.

Before-and-after images of California's Sierra Nevada snowpack highlight a severe decline, with statewide snow levels at 20% of the historical average. The visual evidence underscores the ongoing 'snow drought' in the region.