The Drought That Ate California [GIF]

California is finally getting some rain after enduring a months-long drought.

The rain itself now threatens to cause mudslides in vulnerable areas.

But it's better than the crippling dry spell that's forced massive conservation efforts while damaging crops.

Here's the .gif of images from the U.S. Drought Monitor showing how bad it got (it only plays once, you'll have to refresh the page to watch it again).