Tahoe Health Check: Surviving the Super El Niño This Fall…
By Cal Orey, M.A.
There is a buzz about super El Niño coming to us this fall and winter. The word is, it may be super catastrophic like a Noah’s Ark sequel in our Golden State--especially on the coast. I’ve weathered storms with neighbors canoeing down flooded streets—so hold on, because here is what’s next for Lake Tahoe.
Researchers note the October–December anomaly are the criteria for a “strong” to a El Niño event. El Niño’s bold winter effects peak January through March 2027. Simply put, El Ninio is a naturally occurring climate pattern known for its odd warm ocean temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific, caused by weakening trade winds. It can trigger high tides, severe rain and floods, notes the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Don't forget mudslides and coastal erosion as chunks of California slip and slide into the sea...And it is starting in coastal regions right now.
Here Comes the “Snain”
Brace yourself for unwelcome “snain”—a combo of snow and rain falling simultaneously, often creating slushy conditions to create the El Niño effect, bringing severe winter storms to the Sierra Nevada. These rapid temperature shifts in weather and rugged conditions can take a toll on both body and mind. Here are 5 easy ways to grounded during an adventurous El Niño event:
1. Combat Seasonal Isolation: Heavy Sierra snowstorms can cause power outages, and cabin fever. If roads are closed, follow a daily routine, and enjoy indoor hobbies to manage the mental stress of prolonged confinement during severe weather events.
2. Do Safe Physical Activity Indoors and Out: While El Niño can dump snow at higher elevations, big storms and avalanche risks often make venturing outside dangerous. Shift to indoor exercises, during severe storm warnings to keep your body active, cardio-healthy, and beat stress without risking exposure or injury.
3. Boost Immune Health Through Good Nutrition: Colder, stormy weather often drives people indoors, revving up the spread of seasonal germs. Focus on eating nutrient-dense whole foods and staying clear of processed junk food. Don’t forget anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and anti-inflammatory raw honey in teas and sip water to stave off colds and superbugs. Note: Wash your hands more than less! The Healing Powers of Honey: Revised and Updated by Cal Orey: 9780806545721 | PenguinRandomHouse.com: Books
4. Guard Respiratory Health: El Niño years can affect mountain homes, leading to indoor mold growth. Get good home ventilation, avoid drafts, use dehumidifiers and air purifiers for safety’s sake. Get Regular Shut-Eye: High winds, heavy rain, with passing El Niño storms can disrupt sleep patterns.
5. Prepare Now: Stock up on foods with a stable shelf life, water, pet food, and medicines. Keep the shove, rain gear, and ice scraper close at hand. This winter, you may need all three.
CAL OREY, M.A., is a bestselling author-novelist specializing in topics such as adventure, health, nutrition, and science. She holds a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in English (Creative Writing) from San Francisco State University. Currently, her new release The Healing Powers of Honey, Revised is available at all bookstores. Her website is http://www.calorey.com.
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