Hydrologic Extremes
The effects of drought
Lake Shasta in Northern California showing low water levels during a recent drought.
Monitoring rivers and streams during high-water events
The Consumes River, near Sacramento, experienced record streamflow over the 2022 New Year's holiday weekend as an atmospheric river moved through northern California.
The aftermath of wildfire
Wildfires reduce the forest canopy, exposing snowpack to direct sunlight. This increases the rate of snowmelt and evaporation, impacting runoff and groundwater replenishment.
Water is essential for all life on Earth, but too much water – or too little – can cause big problems. The USGS California Water Science Center studies a wide range of water-related hazards, from large storms and flooding to drought and post-wildfire runoff and helps communities plan for and respond to water-related emergencies.
Drought
The USGS closely monitors the effects of drought through data collection and research, supporting successful planning and science-based decision-making by water managers who must address complex issues and competing interests in times of drought.
Floods
The USGS maintains a network of nearly 500 streamgages in California that delivers a continuous source of streamflow data. When water levels change rapidly, or reach flood-stage levels, flood-warning alerts are issued help emergency managers assess potentially hazardous conditions.
Wildfires
Wildfires pose considerable risks to water quality & quantity, which in turn affect water supplies, fisheries, & aquatic habitats. The USGS studies the effects past, current, & future wildfires have upon California's water resources.