FRESNO COUNTY, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) – Several storms expected to move into the region this week could bring much-needed snow to higher elevations. Local farmers say what happens in the mountains over the next few weeks will play a major role in the Central Valley’s water supply this year.
The region is now entering a critical stretch of the winter water season. After a dry start to 2026, growers and agricultural leaders are closely watching forecasts that call for rain in the valley and snow at higher elevations.
One Fresno County farmer says the snowpack is especially important because it acts as natural storage, eventually melting into runoff that fills rivers and reservoirs.
“Well, we’re looking forward to this storm,” said Joe Del Bosque of Del Bosque Farms. “It’s been a very dry 2026 so far.”
Experts say the region could still use additional water, and the predicted snowstorms may provide just what’s needed. According to Fresno County Farm Bureau CEO Ryan Jacobsen, snowfall in the high Sierra is key to long-term water security.
“With the incoming rain and most importantly the snow that’s going to be up in the high Sierras, that is a benefit right now,” Jacobsen said.
While reservoirs are currently in decent shape, Del Bosque says more snowpack would help ensure a stable water supply through the year.
“Although we had some good rains last year and in November and December, we’re needing some more snowpack,” he said. “We hope that this storm brings more of that.”
Jacobsen notes that despite heavy fog on the valley floor, warmer temperatures at higher elevations have caused some snow to melt at mid and lower levels. He says the colder storms ahead could help rebuild snowpack and slow melting later in the season.
“This is really going to help us not only get additional snow up there, but also to slow its melt for the upcoming year,” Jacobsen explained.
Following the storms, farm leaders say they’ll also be monitoring possible freeze warnings. Colder temperatures after storm systems can pose a threat to early blossoms and crops.
“When you get these storms coming in, sometimes those temperatures drop afterwards,” Jacobsen said. “We’re going to be watching that closely over the next couple of weeks because of the blossoms.”
Even with the potential for freezing conditions, Jacobsen says the additional water from snow and rain is welcome after the dry start to the year, offering hope for farmers as they head deeper into the growing season.
