(07:53) CALIFORNIA – The likelihood of El Niño storms this winter is increasing, according to federal officials. The National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration announced Thursday that the probability of an El Niño—caused by a mass of warm water at the equator—is at 85 percent. That is up from 80 percent last month and 50 percent three months ago. Scientists say sea surface temperatures near the equator are 2 degrees warmer than average, a trend that has caused major El Niño storms in the past. There are still six months left until the winter rainy season begins. In the meantime, California water officials are urging residents to continue conservation practices. (S.G.)
