Extreme Drought Expands into Los Angeles County
Parts of Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties Affected
Extreme drought, the second-most severe category in the weekly report, has expanded into parts of Los Angeles County, according to this week’s U.S. Drought Monitor report. The dry start to the wet season continues in fire-prone Southern California.
California Drought Monitor Map Released
About 11 percent of California is in extreme drought, while 33 percent of the state, including northern Los Angeles County, is in severe drought. The report reflects a dry start to the wet season in Southern California.
A Slow Start to the Water Year
“This year has been a very slow start for our water year,” said meteorologist Belen De Leon. “We are, right now, at the second-driest start to the water year.”
Red Flag Warning Extended
A red flag warning has been extended through 10 a.m. on Friday as strong winds blow ash and dust into the air. This video was broadcast on the NBC4 News at 4 a.m. on January 23, 2025.
Hillsides Covered in Dry Brush
After two seasons of above-average rainfall, a months-long dry spell left hillsides covered in dry brush, providing fuel for wildfires fanned by powerful Santa Ana winds.
Rainfall Deficiency
The average wet season rainfall at this time of year in downtown LA is about 14.25 inches. In the 2022-2023 wet season, the region had 28.40 inches of rain followed by 25.19 inches of rain in 2023-2024. So far in this season, which extends from October to April, downtown LA has recorded a record 0.16 inches of rain.
Average Rainfall in January
Average rainfall for January, the second-wettest month of the year, is close to 4 inches. No rain has been recorded this month in downtown LA, but cooler temperatures and a slight chance for rain are in the weekend forecast.
Conclusion
The U.S. Drought Monitor report highlights the significant short-term drought in the Southwest and southern California, with degradation to drought status continuing this week. The dry conditions are expected to persist, affecting water supplies and increasing the risk of wildfires.
FAQs
Q: What is the current drought status in California?
A: About 11 percent of California is in extreme drought, while 33 percent of the state, including northern Los Angeles County, is in severe drought.
Q: What is the cause of the drought?
A: The dry start to the wet season is attributed to a months-long dry spell, leaving hillsides covered in dry brush and providing fuel for wildfires.
Q: What is the impact of the drought on water supplies?
A: The drought is expected to affect water supplies, increasing the risk of wildfires and impacting the region’s water security.
Q: What is the forecast for the weekend?
A: Cooler temperatures and a slight chance for rain are in the weekend forecast, but no rain has been recorded in downtown LA this month.
