The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) Climate Prediction Center (CPC) is currently tracking one of the largest La Nina events ever recorded. If La Nina plays out as predicted, it could have a big impact on California’s weather this winter, with carry-over into next spring and summer. The CPC long-term winter forecast for California is to be cold throughout the State and very dry over most of Southern California. In the past, California has experienced bad freeze/frost events during La Nina events, including below average winter precipitation and snow pack. Dry winter conditions are often followed by an early hot, dry summer. California’s current conditions are typical of a La Nina event, which means grape growers should monitor temperature lows for their area. Growers with young vineyards (i.e. <10 years of age) should consider running water in the winter to protect vines from freeze damage, especially in areas with below normal precipitation or in low-lying areas.
For more information on La Nina and predictive maps, go to:
What is La Nina?
Predictive maps.
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