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California Declared Drought-Free for First Time in 25 Years

1/9/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The U.S. Drought Monitor confirms California is drought-free for the first time in 25 years.
Winter storms replenished water supplies, contributing to the drought-free status across the state.
Los Angeles saw precipitation totals rise by 8,000% compared with the previous year, an unprecedented spike.
Climatologists caution that some areas still have below-normal snowpack and urge continued water conservation because drought conditions can return.

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Story summary

The U.S. Drought Monitor confirms California is drought-free for the first time in 25 years.
Winter storms replenished water supplies, contributing to the drought-free status across the state.
Los Angeles saw precipitation totals rise by 8,000% compared with the previous year, an unprecedented spike.
Climatologists caution that some areas still have below-normal snowpack and urge continued water conservation because drought conditions can return.