LOS ANGELES – (INT) – Forecasters are downplaying chances of significant El Nino rains this winter.

Climatologist Bill Patzert at JPL in Pasadena says El Nino’s have far-reaching impacts when they happen.

“El Nino often gets a bad rap. It will give in some continents and take-away in others. It’s a dramatic event all over the planet.”

Here in Southern California, Patzert urges patience because this winter’s predicted El Nino won’t be a drought-buster.

“We’re gonna need many years of above normal rainfall. Hopefully, next winter, if we’re lucky, we’ll get a nice big, sweet El Nino. You can join me in hugging the El Nino’s of the future.”

Story Date: November 29, 2014