Rain brings further relief
Posted on Friday, 13 January 2012 02:05 p.m.
Forecast steady rain has arrived in Southland bringing further relief to dry conditions across the province.
Environment Southland Senior Environmental Technical Officer Karl Erikson said rain has been falling at a steadily overnight and today with totals between 20mm and 40mm in some parts.
All parts of the region had experienced reasonable totals with the exception of western areas where rainfall has so far been minimal.
The largest totals were recorded in eastern areas with between 35 to 40mm of rain, 20mm in central and northern Southland and 20mm in coastal areas, including Invercargill, since 8pm last night.
Mr Erikson said the most promising aspect of the rainfall was its rate, at between 3 to 5mm an hour, giving the moisture the chance to soak into the ground.
That has been demonstrated with river levels showing only steady increases, except for the Waikaia River at Piano Flat, which had risen quickly and was being monitored, he said.
The Aparima catchment was still relatively dry but weather predictions in the coming days could see rain delivering respite in that area, he said.
Senior Groundwater Scientist Karen Wilson said some of the aquifers, in particular at Riversdale, were already showing signs of being recharged by the rainfall.
Others would take longer for the water to percolate through soils and into the aquifers, she said.
Compliance Senior Technical Officer Graeme McKenzie said the rainfall was also beginning to take pressure off water abstraction cut-off limits with only four consented takes currently impeded.
However the situation could quickly change and there could again be a period where limits could take effect, he said.
Mr Erikson said more rain forecast for the weekend is expected to give way to north-westerly winds on Monday so more follow-up rain would be needed to counter their drying effects.
Meanwhile senior Council staff met today to evaluate the latest information and Chief Executive Ciaran Keogh said in light of the changing situation staff will continue to monitor the situation but routine operations would resume.
Environment Southland is the brand name of Southland Regional Council.