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Much of SoCal experiencing driest start to winter on record
Aerial view of the Palisades fire near Mountain Gate Country Club.
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Myung J. Chun
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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
FEMA says ‘carefully consider’ GoFundMe campaign phrasing because it can affect disaster aid
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