The depth of a snow pack is an important metric for scientists studying water processes, the weather, and climate. The interaction of snow depth with the surrounding terrain, such as forests, can have complex effects on an ecosystem. Snow depth also helps gauge the potential for water runoff, which could cause floods or provide necessary water to communities for drinking and agriculture.
Overall distributions of snow and ice have been shrinking due to global warming, and snow depth measurements can help scientists understand the effects of Earth’s changing climate. Additionally, studies of snow depth after a snowstorm help assess the impact of these events.
NASA collects data from satellite, airborne, and in-situ observations to aid in the study of snow depth. Our data products related to snow depth include sea ice and snow thickness grids, snow pit measurements, and land ice surface diagnostics.
Access a range of datasets and data tools to further your snow depth research.
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