snowmelt

American  

[snoh-melt] / ˈsnoʊˌmɛlt /

noun

1. water from snow that is melting or has melted.

2. the amount of such water.

---

snowmelt British  

/ ˈsnəʊˌmɛlt /

noun

1. water produced by the melting of snow

---

Etymology

Origin of snowmelt

First recorded in 1925–30; snow + melt ¹

Example Sentences

It’s a very different situation, however, in the Rocky Mountains, where snowmelt sustains the Colorado River.

From Los Angeles Times

This snowmelt is a crucial source for the region's rivers and streams, supplying water for drinking, irrigation and hydropower.

From BBC

Melting Himalayan glaciers pose long-term water scarcity risks, while reduced snowfall and faster snowmelt threaten near-term water supplies, experts warn.

From BBC

The lake is drying out as more water from snowmelt in the mountains is diverted for use by farms and a growing population, and from drought and a warming climate.

From The Wall Street Journal

Heavy rain combined with enormous snowmelt sent a wall of water surging down the Yellowstone River.

From The Wall Street Journal