East 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.
Rainfall in our East region was below average in December at 62% of the Long Term Average (LTA). Over the last three months (October to December inclusive), our East region has received below average rainfall (70% of the LTA) and well below average effective precipitation (37% of the LTA). Soils wetness (SMD) however is below average, meaning any forthcoming rainfall is likely to contribute more than average to groundwater recharge than average.
Groundwater levels started to increase through September and remain above average due to the above average rainfall over the last recharge period, and continue to rise. Groundwater levels are likely to remain above average over the next six months if rainfall is equal or higher than 80% of the LTA. Groundwater levels are currently higher than the above average conditions experienced in 2013-14 but in a lower position than the above average conditions in 2020-21 at the end of December.
Please refer to our Drought Plan for what this means for us and our customers.