USA TODAY | Matthew Kayser / Contributor 06.29.25 : Contrary to what many think, California doesn’t suffer from a lack of water, but it does suffer from a lack of timing. Rain and snow may fall in abundance during a few months each year, but that water isn’t always there when it’s needed most.

The real challenge is managing the supply so it lasts. Overflowing reservoirs in wet months often waste water that could serve communities later. That’s why storage, specifically smarter, long-term storage, is key to a more balanced statewide water strategy.

Storage Options: Why the Traditional Model Isn’t Enough

For decades, California counted on snowpack and reservoirs as natural storage tools. These systems once provided seasonal flow, slowly releasing water through spring and summer.

But warmer winters and hotter summers have disrupted that balance. Snow melts too quickly, and reservoirs evaporate too fast. Traditional surface systems can’t handle the volatility of modern weather patterns.

The result? Less water saved, more water lost. California needs a new model that can adapt to unpredictable conditions and store supplies efficiently.