So far this fall, San Francisco has only experienced a minuscule amount of rain and chilly “sweater weather.” However as we get closer to winter and as the season of El Nino approaches, hopefully that will change, and we’ll need to dust off our rain boots and rain jacket from the closet. But what really is this unique weather pattern that supposedly will bring torrents of rain and wind to the thirsty state of California?
El Nino is a phenomenon that causes an increase in water temperature in the eastern Pacific Ocean that occurs about every three to five years. The warmer water is caused by a change of direction of trade winds that come from the west. The winds push warm surface water to the east, fostering the occurrence of more rain and storms, such as hurricanes.
This winter, El Nino is on track to be the strongest and fiercest El Nino to date, and is predicted to bring buckets of rain and storms according to recent projections made by NOAA.
According to an article from www.dailymail.co.uk, “There are predictions that it could bring as much as 35 inches of rain during the upcoming winter season in some part of California.” Even though we need as much rain as we can get to help ease the state’s drought, it might wise to prepare yourself, and friends and family for soaking wet winter.
Already, there have been copious amounts of flooding and mudslides in southern California, near Los Angeles County. About a month ago, flooding and mudslides trapped several hundred Los Angolan motorists on highway five, after the mud and water became crusty and thick, preventing drivers from moving forward or going back.
So to help prepare yourself for the Godzilla that’s suppose to be El Nino, and to avoid becoming trapped in your car during rush hour, here are few steps to stay safe and warm:
1) If a lot of torrential rain and flooding is forecasted for your area, make sure you listen to any warning to perhaps evacuate or prepare your house for flooding from weather or police officials. In San Francisco, we don’t have to worry about flooding as much since the environment is so hilly; nevertheless, if you get a report from the news or a police to evacuate, then you should probably evacuate.
2) Don’t drive into an area that is flooded, even if you have a huge truck with four-wheel-drive, and think you can make it through. It is best not to take the risk. If your car gets stuck, then you’ll too be stuck, or even worse, water could flood your car, damaging the interior and even the engine. Plus, it could put you in danger. So if you really need to go to the store for your chocolate fix during a storm, you might want to reconsider, or invest in a kayak to paddle to the store.
3) Prepare to bunker down if there is an impending storm. If you know that there is a big storm brewing out there, then it is a good idea to keep some supplies at home and stay in for the day or night. Close all your windows, keep some flashlights or candles handy in case the power goes out. Take out some cozy blankets, and save some snacks and easy to cook foods in case you’re not able to make it to the store. It’s also a good idea to keep your phone charged, that way you can keep up to date on what is going on, and maybe catch up on your Netflix shows.
4) Dress appropriately.
Whether you are going to class and have to trudge through the rain, or are staying in for the day, it is a good idea to dress warmly. Layer a cable knit sweater with a warms scarf and jacket, and don your rain boots or umbrella.
That way you can stay toasty warm and dry. Bring it on El Nino, we’re ready for ya!