California has seen another series of El Niño-fuelled storms this week, with coastal areas taking a particular hit, according to the Associated Press. Heavy wind, snow and rain have led to problems for commuters and residents across the state, with authorities reminding drivers to stay cautious in the challenging conditions, according to the LA Times.
The National Weather Service has warned that the coastline will sustain the most damage from the storms, with the Coast Guard warning that high tide may put some areas at risk for flooding. Thursday marked the last of the bad weather, creating waves that could potentially reach up to 16 feet and bringing thundershowers to inland areas, according to ABC News.
State climatologist Michael Anderson has claimed that "this week's storms will help but will not end drought conditions in California", according to USA Today.
Anderson said that the storm could not be counted upon to reverse the drought conditions in a statement released on the state website, claiming that "at best, there is a 50-50 chance of having a wetter winter."
Over two inches of rain fell in mountain areas on Wednesday, along with a foot of snow in San Bernadino County and around Lake Tahoe, according to ABC News. Mountain resort Big Bear Lake posted a video on Twitter demonstrating the difficult conditions, after sustaining power outages and two feet of snow in the past three days, according to the LA Times.
The El Niño system is a natural warming of the Pacific Ocean and is responsible for weather changes and unusual seasonal climates worldwide. It has now tied with a system in 1997-1998 as the strongest on record, according to the Associated Press.
