California’s drought and how much it has affected us

Despite some February rain, California might endure the driest winter season since 1850, according to the French Tribune. This crisis is becoming so urgent that Governor Jerry Brown declared a drought emergency on Jan. 17.

"I've called for a collaborative effort to restrain our water use," Brown said to NBC Southern California News. "This is a call to arms. This is not a partisan adversary, this is Mother Nature."

To help in preparing for the upcoming drought, the school’s MAP department filmed a public service announcement urging the school to do its part in cutting down water usage. The PSA suggested taking 5-minute showers instead of 10-minute showers — a change that can save up to 25 gallons of water.                                                                                                                                                                                         

The Green Commission also has ideas on how the school can cut down on water usage. 

“We brought up the idea of using drought tolerable plants around school and that would save a ton of water,” senior Florence Wang said.

California’s drought also might result in water rationing this summer. But for now, Gov. Brown is asking residents of the Golden State to cut back water use by 20 percent.

This is looking to be one of the driest winters in California on record. The amount of water in the reservoirs is only 20 percent of the usual amount. 

“I think we can all reduce our water usage if we put our minds to it and think of some creative ideas,” said sophomore Michelle Shen, environmental club’s co-president.