The results of the annual California snow survey are in. Despite the huge increase from one year ago, snowpack is still below average for this time of year. This is a disappointing outcome after what seemed to be the best possible scenario for the state — a very strong El Niño festering in the tropical Pacific Ocean.

Every month from January to May, a survey team from the California Department of Water Resources hikes to Phillips Station, high in the Sierra Mountains east of Sacramento.