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Climate and Environment

Much of SoCal experiencing driest start to winter on record

An aerial view of a hilly community partly engulfed in smoke.
Aerial view of the Palisades fire near Mountain Gate Country Club.
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Myung J. Chun
/
Los Angeles Times via Getty Images
)

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Topline:

Southern California is experiencing a “remarkably dry” start to the winter, according to the National Weather Service. Our wet season typically starts in December, but most of Southern California has seen no rain for a record 255 days, and there’s no end to that dry streak through at least the rest of this month.

What it means: Weather authorities are calling the ongoing high fire risk and dryness of vegetation “extraordinary for January.” This winter is now the driest, or second-driest, on record for most of Southern California.

The context: Fossil fuel pollution in our atmosphere is supercharging Southern California’s natural weather cycles, driving what’s called “weather whiplash.” Two years of historically wet winters allowed lots of vegetation growth, then a record hot summer dried it all out. UCLA researchers found vegetation was about 25% drier than normal this January due to human-caused climate change. Add in extremely strong Santa Ana winds and it’s a recipe for the deadly and destructive disaster that has unfolded.

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What’s next: Weather officials are predicting little to no rain through at least the end of the month. They’re also predicting a possible new round of Santa Ana winds next week. Once rain does come, with the recent fires, there’s an increased danger of mudslides.

Be prepared: Pay attention to weather alerts and local news, keep that go-bag packed and have a plan to evacuate. We know this is a difficult time for our communities, so make sure you also are getting the mental health support you need during these times of extended stress and danger.

The future: Scientists warn that if fossil fuel pollution isn’t significantly cut, these kinds of extreme events are only predicted to worsen.

More resources from our newsroom: 

These devastating fires are taking a toll on our mental health. Here’s how to know when to seek help

Cheat sheet: Your very short guide to getting packed up right now to evacuate

Cheat Sheet: These are the steps fire victims need to take to make an insurance claim

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High winds and fires mean power outages. Here's how to prep

Fire recovery: Victims and evacuees can get started with these resources

Want to help fire victims? Here's what experts say does the most good and places seeking volunteers

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