California Sun
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Weather Notebook commentator David Bernstein tells us about southern California's biggest asset...the weather.

"A recent Los Angeles Times poll asked southern California residents "If you were to develop an advertising campaign to help bring more business into the area, what would you put in an ad that would highlight the area in a positive way?" It wasn't the highly skilled work force or even the large consumer market. No -- the number one response was, the weather.

Truly, the weather is great here -- most of the time. But I think the folks who responded to this survey have that special "sunshine induced amnesia" that can only come from our unique outdoor southern California lifestyle. Did everyone forget those million acre forest fires? How about those high Santa Ana winds that blow my car across 7 lanes of traffic like it was a piece of paper. And what about that seemingly endless drought last summer? Did I mention earthquakes, mudslides and, my seasonal favorite, El Niño.

Now, please don't get me wrong. The diversity of climate and weather conditions can be wonderful. From my house, we can drive a half hour east and be skiing in the mountains or drive west and play on the beach -- and all in the same day if we choose. And generally the sun is shining in both places. But, hey! Where else does that happen? Come to think of it... I guess that is what makes southern California special. I suppose I can overlook the occasional mudslide, earthquake or flood as long as the sun is shining, I got my shorts on...a T-shirt and...Excuse me -- I gotta get outside."

David Bernstein had to spend just a few minutes inside to record his thoughts for The Weather Notebook. Our show is supported by Subaru and by the National Science Foundation.