LOCAL : Rain Brings No Drought Relief
A vigorous upper-level storm hatched in the Gulf of Alaska dumped almost half an inch of rain in some areas of Orange County this morning, but authorities said the amount is not significant in easing the area’s prolonged drought.
Joe Haug, a spokesman for the county Environmental Management Agency, said about four-tenths of an inch was recorded in some central and southern parts of the county this morning.
“This wouldn’t do anything to the drought at all,†Haug said. “We’ve given up on hoping (heavy rainfall) will solve the drought. We are hoping that, next winter, snow in the Sierras will replenish our water supply.â€
The early-morning showers were blamed for 24 minor traffic accidents reported throughout the county before 10:30 a.m., California Highway Patrol Officer Linda Burrus said.
Fire officials said the limited rainfall may complicate this year’s “very critical†fire season, which is to open within the next month.
“This little rainfall causes some growth, which then dries up very quickly and adds more fuel to the already-dry countryside,†said Kathleen Cha, a spokeswoman for the Orange County Fire Department.
There is a slight chance later today of more showers in the mountain regions of the county, according to WeatherData Inc., which provides forecasts for The Times.
Lows tonight will be in the mid-40s to mid-50s.
WeatherData meteorologist Rick Dittmann said clear skies and slightly warmer temperatures are predicted for Tuesday.
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