We’ve posted in earlier months about the severe drought in Australia. Well, hallelujah! Western Australia just got a good soaking.

Thank heavens: rain sends El Nino packing
Canberra Times
“The El Nino weather system has run its course and the weather bureau says the worst drought in a century could be coming to an end, as heavy rain soaked parched south-eastern Australia. Widespread rain in the southern NSW region brought relief to drought-stricken Canberra with rainfall as high as 39mm recorded in Tharwa over the last 48 hours. The manager of the Canberra meteorological office, Ken Batt, said 21mm of rain had been recorded at the…”

Rain in Australia

This is of course just a regional over-lay on the global warming problem, and the return of the rain signals nothing about the larger problem. Neither, does this rain improve the dire conditions of major water reservoirs, or the Murray River’s near disappearance. If patterns of the last 100 years hold, this rain will be followed by “normal” rain conditions for several months. The precipitation or lack thereof is connected to El Nino and La Nina — so if the phenomenon keeps its appointed rounds, things look relatively upbeat. However, this is not so sure. Measurements indicate that El Ninos (meaning drought in Australia) have been getting stronger, with shorter times between occurrences. Aussies will be wise who enjoy the rain and live as though not expecting more.

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