Many farmers across the country are loving the summer weather – the rain, the sun, the temperatures.  Why?  because most regions have seen bumper grass growth due to the relentless rains at the start of the season.

As we head into the second half of summer the temperatures go up, the dry spells usually grow – but the rain makers can be nastier, fueled by sub-tropical warmth.

We’re seeing evidence of this today with big storms forming around half of Australia’s coastlines and major flooding in Fiji which has flooded Nadi today.

Farmers will be enjoying the sunnier weather this week – time to cut hay and prepare for winter. 

The solid grass growth also promises a strong start to the winter months for many.

Not all regions have been so lucky.

Much of the South Island has had either prolonged dry periods – or floods.  But still there are success stories from numerous farmers across the island – and despite droughts almost being declared in Otago and Southland recently, the change to rain bands moving back in this month means it’s looking unlikely any region will officially be declared a drought zone this summer, unless something significantly changes in the coming weeks…and at this stage, that is unlikely.

– Homepage / Holindu Abhayagunawardena

– WeatherWatch.co.nz