The cool weather has been a welcome change for many across the Hunter and it looks like it is here to stay.
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Having endured probably warmest and driest autumn on record good news arrived this week with the announcement the 2015-16 El Nino event is over.
According to the Bureau of Meteorology there is little chance of returning to El Niño levels, in which case mid-May will mark the end of the El Niño heat.
International climate models indicate the tropical Pacific Ocean will continue to cool, with six of eight models suggesting La Niña is likely to form during the austral winter (June–August).
La Nina conditions are the reverse to those of its ‘sister’ El Nino with higher rainfall, cloudiness and cooler conditions.
Typically during La Niña, winter-spring rainfall is above average over northern, central and eastern Australia.
The Southern Oscillation Index has also returned to neutral levels having been in negative territory for much of the late summer and autumn period.
A change in the weather pattern can’t come quick enough for landholders.
For those in the Upper Hunter and in areas to the west of Gloucester faced with severe shortages of on-farm water they will be looking for some decent rainfall to get the run-off needed to replenish their dams.
Although rain has fallen over the range during the last month much of the Hunter and Mid North Coast has remained dry.
It is now a critical time for producers with autumn sown and improved pastures looking for a good drink while there is enough soil warmth to promote their growth.
Rain in the western districts and in Queensland has put a floor in the young cattle market and given export prices a boost.
But only more widespread rain will maintain these prices and improve prices for young cattle.
Louise Nichols
From cattle to coal. Once a specialist agriculture writer today its about community, in particular, the Upper Hunter. I have lived and worked in the region for more than 30 years. Land use issues and the future direction of our region. But you cannot take ag out of the picture - our food and how we grow it is the basis of all life. Covering the Hunter and Mid North Coast rural issues is now part of my role with ACM.
From cattle to coal. Once a specialist agriculture writer today its about community, in particular, the Upper Hunter. I have lived and worked in the region for more than 30 years. Land use issues and the future direction of our region. But you cannot take ag out of the picture - our food and how we grow it is the basis of all life. Covering the Hunter and Mid North Coast rural issues is now part of my role with ACM.
