Drought Update

If you live anywhere in the west, you've probably been following the drought's "remission." In the north, the drought label has been lifted. Here in the central part of California, we're still branded with the most intense label of Exceptional Drought.

California drought conditions, December 27, 2016 (left) and December 29, 2015 (right). Darkest red represents “Exceptional Drought.” (U.S. Drought Monitor)

Last year's El Niño weather pattern, which was supposed to put a dent in the ongoing drought, turned out to be a bust for the southern half of the state. Its counter part, La Niña, is proving much kinder to us especially with the Pineapple Express pattern heading our way (moist air from Hawaii).

Bakersfield just had its third wettest December on record. January is shaping up to do the same. We have a big storm rolling in sometime today and three more storms forecasted for next week. For equestrians living in much of the country, that news would illicit moans and groans. Here in California, we're practically dancing in the streets to see our horses standing in mud.

I haven't done as much riding over this Christmas break as I had intended, but it's okay as I am taking the opportunity to work on one of my New Year's resolutions - demonstrating patience with a good attitude. I did get a short ride in yesterday but it might be the last of the week. It's okay. I'd rather be able to give my horses showers this summer than ride in teh cold anyway.

Come on, rain, you are more than welcome in Kern County!