For the first time in over a year, a deep trough of low pressure is sweeping across California's skies, bringing soaking rainfall all the way from San Diego to the Oregon border. Finally, western hills show a tinge of green. Long-silent Pacific tree frogs are erupting into winter chorus. Mating newts have started their annual pilgrimage through wet redwood forests into creeks.

A surge of strong westerly winds has shoved aside the so-called Ridiculously Resilient Ridge of high pressure that's been parked over the Golden State, deflecting storms.

Does this dramatic shift signal the end of the state's fearsome drought? Or should Californians brace for Ridge Redux?

Experts say this welcome new weather pattern could spare the state from recording