California’s 2019-20 budget will provide $9.25 million to study atmospheric rivers in an effort to improve flood control. Sen. Bill Dodd, D-Napa, who also represents Yolo County announced the news on Wednesday. He indicated the research should lead to better understanding and forecasts of the weather patterns with the intention of not just better flood control but water retention “in a state grappling with the effects of climate change and chronic drought.”