Apr 01, 2001

Low Sierra Snowpack Means Less Hydroelectric Power

State officials yesterday announced that accumulated snowfall in Sierra Nevada has fallen one-third below usual levels, striking another blow to the state's utilities already crippled by the ongoing power crisis. The melting snowpack is critical to the production of hydroelectricity and if the entire reserve melts before the end of summer, water supplies may run out. Pacific Gas & Electric spokeswoman Christy Dennis said: "This is a horrible mixture when you consider the other factors in the energy crisis. Some of those other problems are man-made, but this is Mother Nature. It's just not looking good for California."

copyright 2001 FT World Media