The Department of Agriculture and Food’s monthly growing season outlook has forecast improved rainfall prospects for the wheatbelt over the next three months.
The department’s Statistical Seasonal Forecast (SSF) system indicates normal to wetter than normal rainfall conditions are likely over the wheatbelt from late July to September.
“June was extremely dry, with warmer than normal daytime temperatures and lower than normal night-time temperatures,” department research officer Ian Foster said.
“Soil moisture levels across the wheatbelt have significantly reduced, as a result of these dry conditions, particularly in the northern and eastern parts of the wheatbelt.
“As a result of the dry conditions to date, overall growing season rainfall is expected to be lower than average.”
He said the forecast was made with a medium predictive skill rating, based on global sea surface temperature and atmospheric pressure patterns in June. However, the predictive skill for the northern wheatbelt and the Esperance region was considered poor.
The forecast is consistent with the Bureau of Meteorology’s new seasonal climate forecasting system.
Media contact: Jodie Thomson, media liaison +61 (0)8 9368 393