The incoming storm, El Niño, could help California get out of the historic drought, but it could also cause some new problems, namely, Soil Erosion. The drought has damaged the soil in the especially dry parts of California, and in farm lands. The dry soil is now more susceptible to being eroded and washed away by water from the rains expected to come from this storm.
I hope that we are prepared for these rains coming into California this year, because if not, it could potentially destroy the agricultural productivity of California; which could destroy the economy of California, and raise unemployment. If soil erosion destroys lots of land, it will take thousands of years to reaccumulate that layer of topsoil, meaning that California could be in serious trouble if the Storm is not taken seriously.
Romero, E. (2015, October 14). Drought-Stricken California Prepares For Flash Floods.
Retrieved November 23, 2015, from
http://hereandnow.wbur.org/2015/10/14/california-drought-flash-floods
It seems like every environmental condition comes with not only a positive or negative impact, but both. How can we protect the soil from the storm and take action before it arrives?
Very cool article! Would soil erosion have more complications than the drought?
Thanks for your comments! Quinn, soil erosion can also be caused by over tilling land, and excessive watering, but the drought certainly exacerbates the situation. Hannah, there are not many options sadly, but farmers could start by tilling their soil less, and promoting healthier soil (possibly by fallowing or rotating crops) to try to combat the effects of the storm.