Statistics indicate end of drought
By
NIGEL MALTHUS
The latest statistics from the Meteorological Service provide the best indication yet that the Canterbury drought is over.
The figures show aboveaverage rainfall last month — the first time that has occurred since October, 1987. The recordings taken at the Christchurch Airport Weather Centre show 99mm of rain during May, compared with the longterm average for the month of 70mm.
May was also notable as the least sunny May since readings began at the airport in 1953. Only 93 hours of sunshine were recorded, compared with the longterm average for May of 125 hours. Another record was set last Monday, when a cold southerly spell brought snow to Christchurch and kept the maximum temperature down to s.2deg. — the coldest May day since records began.
The statistics show that May broke the mould of
what had otherwise been a dry and sunny autumn. The Meteorological Service said that a predominance of anti-cyclones brought long spells of fine, settled weather in March and April. March had 26mm of rain, compared with the long-term average for March of 58mm, and 206 hours of sunshine, compared with the average of 163.
April’s rainfall was 45mm, compared with the average of 60mm, and sunshine hours totalled 198, compared with the average of 150. The Meterological Service said that May, by comparison, was “rather a cloudy, wet month,” the weather being influenced by several depressions and southerly outbreaks. While May’s weather may indicate the end of the drought, the effects will be felt for some time to come.
The rain came too late for substantial grass growth before winter, and more will be needed.
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Press, 3 June 1989, Page 3
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275Statistics indicate end of drought Press, 3 June 1989, Page 3
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