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In early January 2025, dry conditions across Southern California sparked a series of deadly wind-driven wildfires. burned down thousands of homes and other structures Located in the Los Angeles area.
Ming Pana hydrologist at the University of California, San Diego Western Weather and Water Extremes Centertracks the state’s water supply. He used charts and maps to put Southern California’s dry conditions into perspective.
How dry is Southern California right now?
In early January, soil moisture in much of Southern California was Bottom 2% of historical records In the area for the day. That’s very low.
California hydrologists are keeping a close eye on the sky starts in octoberwhen California’s Water Year begins.
The state receives little rain from May to September, so late fall and winter are critical for building snowpack to fill reservoirs and provide water. California is counting on The Sierra’s snowpack accounts for about one-third of its freshwater supply..
However, in Southern California, the 2024-2025 water year began with fairly dry conditions. The region received some rain from atmospheric rivers in November, but not much. Then most atmospheric river Typhoons that hit the West Coast from October to January changed course north, reaching Washington, Oregon, and Northern California.
When the air is warm and dry, transpiration Evaporation also draws water from plants and soil. The result is dry vegetation that can be used as fuel. Spread wildfires by blowing embersas seen in early January in the Los Angeles area.
