Too early to predict drought-breaking rain

University of Southern Queensland climate expert, Professor Roger Stone, says it is inappropriate to suggest the potential for slightly increased rainfall over the coming winter would end the drought.

Professor Stone was responding to media reports over the weekend that quoted the high-profile climatologist.

'Various media reports have inaccurately quoted me as saying that drought-breaking rain looks likely after recent steady rainfall in parts of the country.

'These are difficult times in Australia in terms of water supply and drought so it is not surprising these types of stories ‘catch fire'.'

Professor Stone says the situation will become much clearer toward the end of the month when updated information will be provided for winter and spring.

'There is the potential for relief rain in the winter, but we will have to confirm that when we get the full report for winter predictions at the end of May or early June.

'But at this stage a slight improvement seems to be a reasonable assessment for the winter months.'

Despite this assessment, Professor Stone warned that drought conditions would be hard to break.

'The main problem is that we have had such a massive deficit of rainfall in the past fifteen years and a severe water shortage. Therefore it would take many years of wet weather in some areas to substantially alleviate the problem.

'So even if the winter months look slightly better we are a long way from saying that the drought has broken.'

Professor Stone said he was looking forward to issuing a monthly climate assessment on the USQ News and Events website at www.usq.edu.au/newsevents

'The current drought conditions are obviously a major concern for farmers and those living under water restrictions. Given this I am keen to ensure people receive up-to-date and accurate climate information.

'I am also keen to promote the work of the Australian Centre for Sustainable Catchments (ACSC), which was established to ensure the profitability and sustainability of water and catchment administration in Australia.'

Media Contact: Amy Cass, USQ Media, +61 7 4631 2092