Hunter region faces warm spring and low rainfall

The Hunter region is transitioning from one of its warmest winters on record into a spring and summer season characterized by high temperatures and low rainfall. In Newcastle, the first day of spring reached 24 degrees, significantly exceeding the monthly average maximum of 20.3 degrees.

Rainfall levels across the region remained below average throughout the winter months. Significant deficits were noted in several areas, including Lostock Dam, which recorded only 20 per cent of its long-term average in June, and Merriwa, which saw just 29 per cent of its July average. Consequently, Hunter Water storage levels were reported at 71.9 per cent, which is 15.5 per cent lower than the previous year.

The NSW Rural Fire Service has warned that early spring forecasts indicate below-average rainfall and unusually warm conditions. These factors are expected to continue drying out fuels across New South Wales, with the highest risks identified in northern and south-eastern regions.