SOUTHLAND – (INT) – As Southern California emerges from another so-called “wet season”, the “D” word has reappeared.

NOAA’s drought monitor updated on Tuesday (April 8th) puts eastern parts of Riverside and San Diego counties in extreme drought (D3) conditions. The rest of Riverside, the southern half of San Bernardino County and San Diego county are in severe drought (D2).

With chances of any significant spring rain fading, NOAA says the region had its driest start to the water year that began in October. It has followed two consecutive above-average water years.

Climatologists accurately predicted a precipitation shortfall this year in Southern California as El Nino faded. However, Northern California’s plentiful rainfall helped maintain reservoirs to supply the arid Southland this summer.

NOAA also noted very warm conditions continue for mountains and deserts since summer 2024.

Story Date: April 9, 2025