Southeast Region
*The long term average (LTA) has been calculated statistically, using the long term data record for this hydrograph. The respective drought zones are used as operational triggers, and have been derived using the LTA.
*Drought zone 1 is the LTA in Southeast region.
Rainfall in our Southeast region was below average in December at 59% of the Long Term Average (LTA)). Over the last three months (October to December inclusive), our Southeast region has received below average rainfall (76% of the LTA) and below average effective precipitation (54% of the LTA). Soil wetness (SMD) however is currently below average levels for the time of year, meaning that any forthcoming rainfall is likely to contribute more to groundwater recharge than average.
Groundwater levels started to increase through November at a slower rate than the LTA but remain above average due to the above average rainfall last recharge period and continue to rise following the LTA line. Groundwater levels are likely to remain above average over the next six months if rainfall is greater than 60% of the LTA. Groundwater levels are currently lower than the above average conditions experienced in 2000-01, 2013-14 and 2020-21 at the end of December.
Please refer to our Drought Plan for what this means for us and our customers.