RAIN RECORD

Waikato Times, Volume 124, Issue 20718, 31 January 1939, Page 6

RAIN RECORD

ANNIVERSARY DELUGE OVER BIX INCHES REGISTERED DOWNPOUR IN THE WAIKATO Heaviest fall on Anniversary Day for at least 20 years and believed to be a record for the holiday in Hamilton, the rainfall during the extended week-end reached the phenomenal total of 6.43 inches. Anniversary Day in the Waikato has frequently been dull but never In memory has such a torrential rain fallen. The rainfall recorded in the town for the 48 hours ended 9 a.m. yesterday was 3.87 inches, while for the next 24 hours another 2.56 inches fell. The fall was one of the heaviest during any summer week-end holiday in Hamilton and as the deliJge continued it was accompanied by a drop in temperatures. All day yesterday the rain continued practically unabated and last night theatre crowds faced still more rain. Taxis were at a premium when the shows came out and long waits in the damp streets were experienced by many. Loss to Sports Bodies At Seddon Park pools of water an inch or two deep weir scattered at intervals about the outfield and e deserted pitch made a desolate picture in comparison with the animated scene before the weather broke on Saturday, when representative cricketers from Waikato end Hawke’s Bay were contesting the Hawke Cup. For upwards of 38 years the Hamilton regatta has been held on ihe Waikato River on Anniversary Day. with the exception of a break during the war. The rain was much heavier than in 1937, when the regatta was held under unpleasant, conditions, which resulted in considerable financial loss to, the association. While the rain was of great benefit to pastures and gardens it oame at a most inopportune time for the sportsmen’s point of view and financial losses collectively among sports bodies in the Waikato must have been heavy. The rain ceased to-day but the weather was overcast. CAMBRIDGE RAINFALL Cambridge experienced similar wet conditions to other parts of the province. The rainfall over the week-end was as follows: Sunday, 2.961 n.; Monday 1.99 in. The fall so far this month totals 5.47 in. The rain yesterday was very heavy at times and minor flooding occurred in various parts of the district. HEAVY FALLS IN NORTH 9 INCHES AT DARGAVILLE (By Telegraph.—Press Association) DARGAVILLE, Tuesday Record rainfall figures for Dargavllle for the past 18 years have been registered. The rainfall for 24 hours ending Monday morning was 4.53in., and ending this morning 5.141 n., a total of 9.67in. over 48 hours. The rain was soft and gentle and no damage Is reported. Following the lengthy dry spell, the water was practically absorbed as it fell.