Summary

A look at atmospheric rivers of 2017 and how they fit into the context of past atmospheric rivers.

Contents:

• Recap of precipitation and temperature forecasts and skill analysis
• Recent precipitation and temperature forecasts and skill analysis
• Initial skill analysis of S2S products based on NMME forecasts

Summary

This document summarizes information from the Jan. 23, 2017 CA-NV Drought Early Warning System Drought and Climate Outlook Webinar, including discussion of current conditions, snow pack, flooding in times of drought, and a look ahead. The webinars, held every other month, are designed to provide stakeholders and other interested parties in the region with timely information on current drought status and associated impacts, as well as a preview of current and developing climatic events (i.e. El Niño and La Niña).

Summary of conditions and climate outlook for California and Nevada in December 2016, as presented during Dec. 2 webinar.

In September and October 2016 the National Integrated Drought Information System (NIDIS), the California Nevada Climate Applications Program (CNAP), the Desert Research Institute (DRI), the Western Regional Climate Center (WRCC) and other partners held a series of regional Drought and Climate Outlooks throughout California. These full-day meetings provided stakeholders and other interested parties with timely information on current drought status, as well as a preview of recent, current and developing climatic events (i.e. El Niño and La Niña) and ocean conditions.

Describes NOAA activities through May 2016 in support of the California Water Action Plan (CWAP).

CNAP newsletter summarizes 2014 drought in California. 

How different El Niños have affected California at different times, and their relative strengths. A strong El Niño can result in a continuing drought year like water year 1992, an average year like 1973, or a wet year like 1983, so there is not a certain cause and effect relationship between precipitation and El Niño.