California Prepares for New Water Year Amid Looming La Niña and Record Heat, DWR States

Efforts such as the Forecast Informed Reservoir Operations and floodplain restoration projects aim to reduce flood risk.Photo byJames Qualtrough 🇮🇲onUnsplash

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – As the new Water Year begins on October 1, the Department of Water Resources (DWR) is preparing for more extreme weather, following a record-breaking hot summer and the potential onset of La Niña conditions. California has faced significant challenges over the past decade, with the state experiencing both extreme droughts and severe floods.

DWR Director Karla Nemeth emphasized the need for resilience, stating, "California has experienced the full range of climate challenges, and we will be seeing more of that in the future." To address these challenges, the state is investing in flood protection, groundwater recharge, and enhanced water management strategies. Efforts such as the Forecast Informed Reservoir Operations and floodplain restoration projects aim to reduce flood risk while improving water supplies.

While Lake Oroville is currently at 101 percent of average, the NOAA Climate Prediction Center predicts a 71 percent chance of La Niña conditions this fall. La Niña events typically result in drier years, but more intense storms are likely as the climate continues to change.