THE third-hottest January on record has challenged primary producers, and the Bureau of Meteorology warns that February-April is likely to be drier and warmer than normal in most of NSW.
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NSW DPI seasonal conditions co-ordinator Ian McGowen said there was little relief from the record-breaking heat, despite January rain being near average across 65 per cent of the state.
He said the above-average temperatures had slowed pasture growth, accelerated summer crop growth and increased crop water needs.
“Below-average rainfall was received across 21 per cent of state in areas of coastal, central and south-eastern NSW,” Mr McGowen said.
“Rainfall across the state ranged from 1mm to 404mm, with most of NSW receiving between 10mm and 50mm during January.
“Thunderstorm activity provided some higher falls across the north-west, northern slopes, northern tablelands and the north coast.
“It was the third-warmest January on record across NSW, with daytime and overnight temperatures well above average, particularly in the east and north of the state.
“Due to the above-average temperatures and high evaporation experienced during January, pasture growth slowed across most of NSW.
“Topsoil moisture remained relatively low across much of inland NSW, with declines across the south-east, central and southern areas.
“The rainfall received over areas of the north-east provided a slight improvement to topsoil moisture.
“Stock condition remained generally good, although in some areas the high temperatures and declining feed quality and availability resulted in stock losing condition.
“Supplementary feeding has recommenced in some areas.”
Mr McGowen said the high temperatures during January accelerated summer crop growth and increased crop water requirements.
“In the north, dryland crops have been stressed and yields are likely to suffer, particularly dryland sorghum and cotton,” Mr McGowen said.
“Crop development in the south remains slightly delayed due to the late sowing time.
“The yield potential for irrigated crops in the south is average to above-average, particularly for rice and cotton.”
The Bureau of Meteorology’s rainfall outlook for February to April indicates drier-than-normal conditions are likely, with temperatures likely to be warmer than normal across most of NSW.
To prepare for drought conditions, primary producers are encouraged to visit www.droughthub.nsw.gov.au