California back to drought conditions

Next week will close out a dry winter for California, after all too short period of adequate rainfall.

According to the latest information on California from the U.S. Drought Monitor, a year ago the state was entirely cured of drought.

With a too-dry winter just about behind us, a mere 4.4% of the state is not suffering from abnormally dry conditions up to severe drought.

Most of the state — including OCB Country — merits the label “abnormally dry” that is the first and mildest stage of drought.

According to the California State Climate Office, the average maximum temperature for the greater Los Angeles area for March is 68.8°F. Today and yesterday have been above average, but the temperature should drop back beginning tomorrow.

The northeast portion of the state has already skipped to severe drought, while central and southeastern California suffer under moderate drought conditions. Only the far northwest and far southwest have avoided drought as yet.

As we enter the long dry hot months, remember to conserve water and keep yourself hydrated.

The Mayo Clinic recommends roughly 13 eight-ounce cups of beverages daily for men and 9 cups for women. Your need may vary depending on your personal circumstances. Water is best — your daily cups of coffee count, but you need to take into account possible side effects like extra calories, sleeplessness, jitteriness and anxiety.

Featured photo

California drought map courtesy of U.S. Drought Monitor.

Fourth warmest winter on record for the U.S. (wunderground.com)

About the Author

shelley

Shelley Henderson is a reformed computer and networking geek turned freelance writer. Now she only fixes her own networks and computers. That leaves time for writing, and writing and more writing. And editing the Orange County Breeze. Shelley most enjoys visiting and finding out about local businesses to write business profiles that allow our communities to learn more about their local businesses and the people who own and run them. If you own or manage a business in our coverage area and would like to invite Shelley to write a business profile, let us know.