Los Angeles needs just 1.13 inches of rain to match the record set in 1883-84. Today’s NY Times editorial on this "rain watch in Los Angeles" reminded me of what’s been on my mind lately:
After such a wet winter, no one really wants more rain. As The New York Times pointed out on its weather page on Friday, Los Angeles has already surpassed the average annual rainfall of Chicago and is heading toward Pittsburgh. Yet most Angelenos are quietly hoping to break the old mark of 38.18 inches.
Yes, most of us are hoping for this (Why quietly? Are we ashamed to bring it up?). As an Angeleno, it’s all I think about other than this week’s box office and surfing. All day, I’ve been thinking of ways to help break this rainfall record. Perhaps I should drive up to the Chumash Indian Casino near Santa Barbara and ask for help. Do Native Americans remember any traditional rain dances? Or have they forsaken that for blackjack and Stud High low Omaha Hold ’em.
Of course, the NY Times editorial has to end with a downer about Los Angeles.
But in Los Angeles, and much of California, this winter’s history is next winter’s drought. A wet season runs down the storm drains and out to sea, but a drought goes nowhere, compounding itself day by day.
Contrast this with a similar article about LA’s rain record in the L.A. Daily News.
Still, the rain has made for a colorful spring, with grass growing and flowers in full bloom.
"It starts to look like Hawaii here," said Susie Corder, 29, of North Hollywood. "Everything is so green."
Excuse me, I have to go back to praying to Chac, the ancient Mayan rain god.
