The California and Nevada Climate Trackers

The analysis of climate variability and trends is necessary in managing natural resources and monitoring and understanding the role of climate change. California and Nevada have diverse climates, driven by latitudinal extent, proximity to the Pacific Ocean, and complex terrain. From the snow-capped Sierra Nevada to the agricultural lands of the Central Valley to the arid Mojave Desert, the distinct climates of these states are best monitored at a regional scale, while collective information about the state may be valuable as well. The California Climate Tracker and Nevada Climate Tracker tools allow users to generate PRISM-based graphics and data for various regions in the state as well as statewide values. Current and archived temperature and precipitation data are available for the period spanning 1895-present. The tools feature a data-driven dashboard powered by D3 for information pertinent to the latest month and year. Information from the Climate Trackers can be used to support monitoring needs, address media questions, and generate high-quality graphics for reports, publications, and presentations. The methods can be adopted for other states where PRISM estimates are available.