Displaying items by tag: Drought

Well, it was supposed to be a dry summer, but all it has done here in Northland is rain!

Events are often moved indoors because of rain, but seldom are they moved outdoors because of it.

MPI says while recent rains have brought welcome respite from dry weather in much of the country, farmers in drought-affected regions will feel the impact of El Niño for months.

As we enjoy the warmth of spring, wine growers everywhere will be turning their thoughts towards the growing season, and water availability will surely be high on the discussion list.

Widespread drought conditions in the South Island mean the medium-scale event classification will be extended until the end of June, Primary Industries Minister Nathan Guy announced today.

While drought conditions persist in many parts of the country, some irrigating farmers are coping well, says IrrigationNZ.

"Everyone's trying all sorts of combinations to get through" is how Cheviot's Emmet Daly describes North Canterbury farmers' efforts to cope with their sixth season of drought.

El Nino will still be the main climate driver for the next three months or perhaps even longer despite recent rain, says Chris Brandolino, principal scientist forecasting at NIWA.

Farmers on the East Coast of the South Island are looking to move their stock to greener pastures as the hot and dry weather conditions continue to intensify.

The Rural Support Trust is getting information out early about help available in case the El Nino brings drought, says Northland Rural Support co-ordinator Julie Jonker.