It is the winter dry season.  Daily measurements of precipitation have been 0 for a couple weeks.  Retention ponds in the area, used for water management in this low elevation area, are showing shorelines that are at least 2 feet lower than their highest levels only a month ago.  Grasses and lawns are turning brown if sprinkler systems are not installed and used every other day.  Oak trees are dropping some leaves in response.  However, this is the time of year for such things.  Hence, the "normal" selection.