Trojans’ survival guide to LA winter storm

A blizzard warning has been issued this weekend for Los Angeles and other Southern California regions. According to a Twitter post from the National Weather Service, this storm is the worst L.A. has seen since 1989, and only the second blizzard warning ever on record for the area. Residents should take extra precaution in or around the mountain ranges that skirt the city, according to an L.A. Times article. The National Weather Service advises little to limited travel in the affected areas of the storm warning, particularly on Friday and Saturday.

Despite the cold temperatures, gusty wind and heavy rain, here are some ways Trojans can make the most of this stormy weekend!

Things to Watch 🎬

Nothing says rainy day like your Netflix Watch List. Whether it’s a classic romantic comedy or an action packed thriller, there’s a certain comfort in curling up with a blanket and turning on something to watch and escape the unfortunate weather. So grab some microwave popcorn and watch one of these shows/movies when it feels like there’s nothing to do.

• “Sex and the City”
• This romantic comedy-drama tells the story of four female friends living in New York City. “It’s just like a mindless, funny show that’s easy and comforting,” Lauren Amico, a sophomore studying communication, said.
• Indeed, funny shows are a great way to relax especially when the weather is gloomy. Jessica Thomas, a freshman studying business administration, recommended “White Lotus,” while senior majoring in computer science Matt Leslie said the movie “Hot Fuzz” would be good to watch.

Food to Eat 🥣

Some foods just made for colder weather. Here’s a list of some of the best comfort foods for you to get this weekend to keep warm and satisfy those cravings.

• Northern Cafe
• This Chinese restaurant offers an array of dumpling, noodle and fried rice dishes to warm you up. It’s located less than a mile from campus on S. Figueroa Street, making it a convenient option. “I’m away from home and I miss my mom’s cooking, so the closest I can get is Northern Cafe,” said Carol Zhou, a junior majoring in public policy.
• K-Town Pho
• A piping hot bowl of pho, or Vietnamese noodle soup, is always comforting with its spicy and tangy flavors. This highly rated restaurant in Koreatown is a popular choice for the dish. “[Pho] just tastes so good and you can never go wrong with it,” said Nana Fujita, a junior majoring in computer science games. “It’s just always delicious.”
• Baking
• If you’re just craving a snack, making some baked goods is always an option. Baking can be incredibly fun and relaxing, not to mention you end up with some tasty treats. “I really like baking cookies, especially when the ingredients are pretty close by like at Target,” said Thomas An, a sophomore majoring in communication.

Indoor Activities 🏠

Just because you can’t go outside does not mean you can’t have fun or be productive. Whether you are alone, or with friends or roommates, passing the time doesn’t have to be boring.

• Read a book
• No matter the genre, now is a great time to pick up that book you have always been wanting to read. “I like reading when it’s raining,” said Namiha Yasuda, a junior majoring in computer science. “I feel like the vibe is very romantic.”
• Clean
• Although cleaning may not seem like the most fun activity, it doesn’t have to be boring either. It is a productive way to pass the time and you can spice it up by putting on music while you clean or even listening to an audio book or podcast. “Any time I’m cleaning or doing anything, I have to listen to stuff,” said Ellen Landrum, a freshman majoring in computer science.
• Exercise
• Physical exercise doesn’t always have to be outside. Lauren Amica, a sophomore majoring in communication, enjoys a warm indoor alternative. “Hot yoga is indoors and always a nice workout,” Amica said.