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California's Wet Season Hasn't Ended The Drought Emergency, Says Governor Gavin Newsom
Governor Gavin Newsom says that while the storms have replenished some water supply, the drought emergency still hasn't ended.
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Courtesy California Governor's office
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Youtube
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Governor Gavin Newsom announced that while the historic rainfall has replenished some of the state’s water supply, the drought emergency continues. The state will continue to allocate resources to replenishing the diminishing sources of water supply millions of Californians rely on.
Why it matters
Californians have experienced a drastic wet season, with atmospheric rivers and historic rainfall. But that hasn't changed the circumstances of the lessening water supply the state has been struggling with for the past few years.
However, the winter storms provided a silver lining. The Department of Water Resources says that they will be allocating 75% of requested water supplies, up from the 35% announced in February.
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Why now
Groundwater supply, which provides water to millions of Californians, has been diminishing. And the Colorado River, which supplies water to a third of all water for cities and households in Southern California, has been facing a 23-year old drought.
The backstory
California has been experiencing a historic 3-year drought, due to hotter, drier weather conditions accelerated by climate change. Governor Newsom issued an Executive Order in 2022 in response to the drought enacting several provisions for conserving water for households and businesses.
What's next
Governor Newsom stated at a news conference today that he will be lessening provisions from his drought executive order. However, he will maintain some provisions of the executive order to allow for "fast tracking of groundwater replenishment projects, stormwater capture and recycling programs."
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
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