snowpack Update: January 2026 | Storms Bring Hope to the Kern River

As we navigate the heart of winter, the narrative around California's snowpack has dramatically shifted since early December. A series of powerful storms in late December and early January have delivered much-needed precipitation, significantly boosting the Sierra Nevada snowpack and bringing renewed optimism to anglers across the state, especially here in the Southern Sierra.

Here at Kern River Fly Shop, we are thrilled to share these positive developments. While the early season was a cause for concern, the recent storms have underscored the dynamic nature of California's weather and the resilience of our natural systems. The Kern River watershed, in particular, has seen substantial gains, setting a much stronger foundation for the upcoming spring and summer fishing seasons.

January 12, 2026 California Snowpack Update

The data as of January 12, 2026, paints a far more encouraging picture than just a few weeks ago. The statewide snowpack, which was lagging significantly in early December, has made remarkable progress thanks to the recent atmospheric river events.

A Dramatic Turnaround for the Southern Sierra

Just a month ago, the statewide average was a mere 24% of normal. However, by January 12, 2026, the statewide snowpack has surged to 81% of normal for the date, with an average of 10.1 inches of Snow Water Equivalent (SWE) . This dramatic improvement is a testament to the intensity and duration of the late December and early January storms .

Crucially for us, the Southern Sierra has not only seen significant gains but has now reached 101% of normal for this date, with 11.6 inches of SWE . This is a phenomenal recovery and provides a robust foundation for the Kern River's flows in the coming months. While some areas received more rain than snow, the overall impact has been overwhelmingly positive for the snowpack .

Crucially for us, the Southern Sierra has also seen significant gains, reaching approximately 84% of its median snow water equivalent by January 4, 2026 [10]. This is a phenomenal recovery and provides a robust foundation for the Kern River's flows in the coming months. While some areas received more rain than snow, the overall impact has been overwhelmingly positive for the snowpack [11].

Looking Ahead: Continued Optimism and Vigilance

The recent storms have provided the much-needed boost we hoped for. While long-range forecasts still indicate a La Niña climate pattern, which can often mean warmer and drier conditions for Southern California [8], the early January snow totals have mitigated some of those concerns. The critical snow accumulation months of January, February, and March are still underway, and further storms could push us well above average.

What This Means for the Kern River

1. Improved Outlook: The significant increase in snowpack means a much healthier outlook for spring and summer flows on the Kern River. This translates to more consistent water levels, cooler temperatures, and a more vibrant ecosystem for trout.

2. Excellent Winter Fishing: The current conditions, with good snowpack and stable weather between storms, continue to offer steady winter fly fishing opportunities. The river is accessible, water clarity is improving, and trout are becoming more active and easier to target.

3. Continued Monitoring: We will continue to closely monitor the snowpack and weather forecasts. Every additional storm contributes to a stronger water year and better fishing conditions.

Experience the Best Fly Fishing in Southern California

The improved snowpack outlook makes this an even more exciting time to plan your fly fishing adventures! Don't miss your chance to experience some of the best winter and upcoming spring fly fishing in Southern California.

Book your guided trip now to learn from our expert team and get the most out of every cast. Our guides are intimately familiar with the Kern River and its ever-changing conditions.

Want to sharpen your skills? Our upcoming clinics are the perfect place to grow your knowledge and confidence for the season ahead.

Need new gear? Check out our latest drops - we ship FREE on all orders over $75!

Tight lines and we look forward to seeing you on the river!

— The Kern River Fly Shop Team

References

[1] California Cooperative Snow Surveys. Current Regional Snowpack from Automated Snow Sensors. Data as of January 12, 2026. (Source: User-provided screenshot of official data).

[2] California Department of Water Resources. Late December Storms Deliver Much-Needed Snowpack and Water Supply for California. (Dec 30, 2025).

[3] Valley Water. Recent storms boost early-season snowpack in the Sierra Nevada. (Dec 31, 2025).

[4] Turlock Journal. Late December storms deliver much-needed snowpack.... (Jan 7, 2026).

[5] Los Angeles Times. Recent storms boosted California's snowpack, but there's.... (Dec 30, 2025).

[6] Times of San Diego. California's vital snowpack at 71% of normal after.... (Dec 31, 2025).

[7] Weather.com. Latest Round Of California Ended (Recap). (Jan 5, 2026 - snowpack jumped to 90% of normal).

[8] Drought.gov. Snow Drought Current Conditions and Impacts in the West. (Jan 8, 2026 - more rain than snow has fallen in many areas).

[9] NOAA Climate Prediction Center. ENSO Diagnostic Discussion. (La Niña is favored to continue into the Northern Hemisphere winter).