California climate cycles likely to intensify

For developers and construction professional, the California climate cycle of drought followed by too much rain at once is a way of life. Builders have to accommodate for arid, dusty conditions and for the possibility of high rains, flooding and landslides, and construction defects can make the impact of such climate extremes devastating. Researchers note that this isn’t something that is going to go away anytime soon. In fact, they believe that the swings in weather are only likely to get worse. The climate in many parts of the state has always moved from arid to rainy season and back again. Recent years have seen much harder swings that are recorded in history, though. Officials and researchers say warming temperatures have something to do with that, and that the implications for dangerous flood and drought conditions are growing. According to research, when the state enters a dry period, it is dryer than in the past. That means more potential for wild fires that can’t be controlled — making it important for new buildings and landscaping to be completed with all appropriate preventative measures. The same is seen in the wet season. Rainy seasons are much wetter, and storms can be fierce as they drive flash flooding. Again, construction professionals have to pay attention to landscapes and building materials, ensuring buildings are erected that have a chance at withstanding such onslaughts. While you can’t always contend with Mother Nature, you can ensure your home or business property is as prepared as possible. If you believe that a construction defect increased damage from weather, you might have a case for reparation. Source: LA Times, “From extreme drought to record rain: Why California’s drought-to-deluge cycle is getting worse,” Rong-Gong Lin II and Paige St. John, April 12, 2017