‘A bit like poker,’ California’s wet winter brings La Niña/El Niño confusion
Californians can be excused for being confused about the weather forecast. Scientists in October said La Niña had arrived, which many associate with dry conditions, particularly in the Southland. But we have instead experienced a very wet season — at least so far — with rain bringing much-needed moisture to the brush, likely putting an end to the autumn fire season, and helping to keep the state’s reservoirs in good shape. … But La Niña “doesn’t always mean drought,” said meteorologist Jan Null, an adjunct professor at San Jose State University. In fact, out of the seven La Niñas seen over the last 15 years, three were whoppers when it came to rain. … A healthy snowpack is key to California’s annual water supply.
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