Meteorologists are predicting above-normal temperatures for the remainder of the summer and early fall in California, exacerbating the state’s ongoing drought situation. Del Norte County, which has been free from drought conditions for months, is now facing moderate drought conditions.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), there’s a 33% to 50% chance that California’s weather will lean above normal during this period. The outlook for August and September shows “equal” chances of above-normal, near-normal, or below-normal rainfall, making it uncertain how much rain the state might receive.
The scorching heat waves continue to affect California throughout the summer. While some areas are gradually moving away from triple-digit temperatures, others are preparing for another round of sweltering conditions.
The National Weather Service has issued warnings of a “widespread moderate heat risk” in the Central Valley and foothills, with an excessive heat watch in effect for portions of Southern California, expecting “dangerously hot” temperatures ranging from 108 to 117 degrees.
The tweet below verifies the news:
Nearly 903,000 people remain in drought areas, a roughly 167,000 increase from May. https://t.co/9QpmdpOJUC
— The Sacramento Bee (@sacbee_news) August 3, 2023
The heat can exacerbate the drought situation and create favorable conditions for wildfires, especially in lower-elevation grasslands where vegetation is drying up quickly due to limited winter moisture.
As of the latest update from the U.S. Drought Monitor, nearly 903,000 people still live in drought-affected areas, representing an increase compared to previous months.
Although approximately 93% of California is currently drought-free, some regions, such as parts of Inyo, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties, remain in “moderate” drought. Notably, Del Norte County reentered drought conditions after months of being drought-free.
The status of the drought varies across the state, with roughly 25% of the land still considered abnormally dry. Water agencies’ supplies and individual locations play a crucial role in determining whether the drought is over for specific areas.
As California faces the challenge of both extreme temperatures and lingering drought, authorities and communities must remain vigilant and take appropriate measures to manage potential risks and impacts.
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