The state’s reservoirs are reaching capacity for the first time in decades, but more rain could prompt flooding in downstream communities.
California is drought-free for the first time in 25 years thanks to recent storms, reports Paris Barraza in USA Today. “The state has recorded over 14 inches of rain as of Jan. 10 and since Oct. 1, 2025, according to the California Water Watch, up nearly five inches from the historical average for the same period.”
At this time, California is the only U.S. state to be entirely free of drought. “Across Southern California, some regions recorded more than 10 inches of rain over a 14-day period that included Christmas and New Year’s Eve, according to data from Ventura County Public Works.”
The state’s major reservoirs are reaching or exceeding their capacity. Experts warn that high reservoir levels could mean flooding in downstream communities if rains continue.
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