“Weather whiplash” has become a reality in California: this year, the driest three-year period on record was broken by a spate of near-record precipitation. This variability has many clamoring for more accurate seasonal predictions, which could help the state better manage its water supply, prepare for disasters, and maintain economic health. But that’s not as easy as it sounds, says Dr. Xianan Jiang, a researcher with UCLA’s Joint Institute for Regional Earth System Science & Engineering. We asked him to tell us more.

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