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Central Region
*The long term average (LTA) has been calculated statistically, using the long term data record for this hydrograph. The respective drought zones are used as operational triggers and have been derived using the LTA.
Rainfall in our Central region was just below average in September at 84% of the Long Term Average (LTA). Over the last three months (July to September inclusive), our Central region has received below average rainfall (79% of the LTA) and below average effective precipitation (66% of the LTA). Soil Moisture Deficit (SMD) (soil dryness) remains above average for the time of year, meaning any forthcoming rainfall is unlikely to contribute significantly to groundwater recharge until soils are wetter. Note that summer effective precipitation levels (the amount of rainfall which reaches groundwater) are usually low. Average effective precipitation levels over the winter are higher.
Groundwater levels continue to decline but remain above average at most indicator boreholes in the region, because of high groundwater levels at the start of the seasonal recession in spring 2025. Two boreholes (Ashley Green and Little Bordeaux Farm) are in Environmental Stress. Levels are forecast to remain above average if we get more than 40 % LTA rainfall for the rest of the calendar year. Groundwater levels could drop below the LTA from January 2026 with under a very dry rainfall scenario (60 % LTA rainfall or less).
Please refer to our Drought Plan for further information about droughts and how we manage them.