La Nina Not Developing Like Hoped

Drought conditions across Oregon and Washington continue to improve, thanks to rain and snow over the last few weeks.  But Climatologist Zach Hoylman said not all areas are created equal.

“Snowpack is showing encouraging accumulation, so far, in the west, and a slower start in the east.  However, it’s very important to note that we have a long way to go before the snowmelt season actually occurs, so these conditions could change dramatically.”

And Andrea Bair, with the National Weather Service, said everyone is still waiting for the cooler, wetter conditions expected with La Nina. She added not only has that weather pattern been very slow to develop, but it’s also looking very weak.

“But it may not even be considered a full-fledged event when we get through with winter and move into the spring, simply because it’s so late in forming.”

Bair says ocean temperatures have been warmer than normal for more than a year, which is having an impact on La Nina.  She added we can expect rain showers, more often than snow, between now and Christmas day.

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