DROUGHT
Drought is one of the least considered natural hazards in the Gisborne/Tairawhiti region. Three recent periods of drought have been documented with drought conditions of 47 days occurring in 2013, 12 days in 2015 and 37 days in 2020. Less severe drought but more significant drought conditions occurred in 2010, and short periods of drought conditions occurred in 2007, 2011, 2016, 2021, and 2022. Unfortunately systematic recording of drought events only began in 2007. Climatic conditions have been generally wetter than average since 2023 with no drought conditions recorded in the interval although the potential for a drought was forecast for the 2024 summer.
Every year, there are periods of dry weather that can have a disruptive impact on farms and local farming communities.
Agriculture drought
Agricultural drought is when soil moisture becomes so low, plants can no longer grow. As soil moisture decreases, plants become stressed and die if the drought is prolonged. An agricultural drought ends when adequate amounts of rain restore soil moisture levels
Hydrological drought
Hydrological drought refers to a significant reduction in the amount of water available in rivers, lakes and groundwater (the hydrological system). This happens when rainfall is well below expected levels in a large catchment area for an extended period, often leading to water supply shortages.
Help is available to farmers, growers, and their families during drought and in the recovery period from the Ministry of Primary Industries. Learn more about dealing with drought conditions
Get ready for a drought
Preparing for a drought
- Depending on where you live you make sure you check your water supply and quality.
- Check all plumbing for leaks and have leaks repaired.
- Never pour water down the drain when there may be another use for it like watering your indoor plants or garden.
- Provide shade for any animals.
- If you have any animals that need shearing, try and shear them before the hot weather arrives.
During a drought
- Follow the guidance from officials or local councils about drought restrictions in your area.
- Use water efficiently and adhere to water restriction.
- Check again for leaks in plumbing, hoses, taps, pipes etc to ensure there are no leaks.