Rain Brings Hope to Santa Cruz Mountain Residents

Watching the Rain

It's been a long time since it's rained. So long that local residents cannot remember the last time they heard thunder or saw lightening. Somewhat of a freak storm, the November rains of late have been welcomed by California Bay Area residents.

"I can't remember the last time I saw this much rain," Chrissy Hocutt, a long standing Bay Area resident said. "What's left of the grass is actually turning green."

Bay Area residents have been living in severe drought conditions for the past four years. Threats of wildfire have had Santa Cruz Mountain locals on edge, as well as the prediction of El Niño - a weather phenomenon that promises to bring torrential rains and flood waters to California this winter. 

"It's a concern because torrential rains following a long period of drought means a lot of flooding. Because of climate change it will be extreme and dangerous," one local resident predicted.

Long Overdue Rainstorm Comes through Big Basin

While local residents prepare as best they can for what may come they must also prepare for things to continue as they are.

"We don't wash our cars and we've eliminated some of our grass. Most people in our neighborhood are very careful about how much they use. It's just the way it is - we're all in this together," Chrissy said.

Water conservation and environmental preservation is a long-standing tradition in Northern California. Drought tolerant plants, buckets in the shower to catch unused water, and parking lots covered with solar panels are the norm in the Bay Area. People seek sustainable living and keep conservation at the forefront of their lives. From recycling everything, to driving fuel efficient cars, to eliminating waste, California residents are forward-learning when it comes to keeping things green.
The stormy weather brought big swells to Mavericks and Steamers Lane. Surfers were out in droves as good sets rolled in one after the other. 

Surfing Storm Waves at Steamers Lane in Santa Cruz

After nearly two days of rain, sunshine and rainbows blessed the valley; a hopeful sign of better days ahead.

Double Rainbow–A Sign of Hope