Southern California is about to experience its first significant winter rains, providing much-needed relief from recent wildfires like the Hughes and Palisades fires, which have scorched thousands of acres. However, meteorologists warn that the rain may offer only short-term benefits, as the region is experiencing historically dry weather, potentially leading to dangerous conditions once again. The Santa Ana winds, which could start up again soon, may exacerbate fire threats in the coming months, particularly amidst a significant overall deficit in rainfall this winter.
"We have not been in this territory before for dryness, not this deep into a winter - ever," said Alex Tardy, meteorologist with the National Weather Service office in San Diego.
"This weekend's rains could provide only temporary relief," suggesting future dry spells may lead to a resurgence of fire threats in Southern California.
Southern California is in the throes of a historically dry start to winter - one for the record books, shattering records that have been collected since the late 19th century.
The Santa Ana wind season can persist through February and March, raising concerns about whether dangerous fire weather could return sooner than later.
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