Scientists define 'snow eater' heat waves as new extreme weather category

Researchers have identified a distinct class of spring heat waves that rapidly melt mountain snow, with implications for water supply and flood risk across the western United States.

First covered Aug 12, 2026 · 1:45 AM PT · 1 article

Scientists define 'snow eater' heat waves as new extreme weather category — Image via grist.org

Coverage

12h Grist Scientists define a new category of heat wave: ‘Snow eaters’

Primary sources

drought.gov Snow Drought Current Conditions and Impacts in the West | April 9, 2026 | Drought.gov

More coverage from around the web

watereducation.org 'Snow-eater' heat waves adding to water woes plaguing the West - Water Education Foundation

mavensnotebook.com COURTHOUSE NEWS: 'Snow-eater' heat waves adding to water woes plaguing the West ~ MAVEN'S NOTEBOOK | California Water News Central

science.org Snow-eater heat waves of the western United States | Science Advances

courthousenews.com 'Snow-eater' heat waves adding to water woes plaguing the West | Courthouse News Service

impacts.ucar.edu Snow-eater heatwaves of the western United States - Impacts @ NSF NCAR and UCAR

Appeared in: 2026-08-12 (#14)

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