Overview
- Early July Dürremonitor data show the southernmost regions in an exceptional drought with soil moisture deficits down to about 1.8 metres.
- Farmers in affected areas report crop losses already and regional estimates point to 20–30% lower yields for wheat, rapeseed and summer barley.
- Dairy and other livestock are drinking far more water with one farmer saying cows now use roughly 50–60 litres extra per head per day.
- Foresters warn that prolonged dryness increases the risk of drought damage, bark beetle outbreaks and higher wildfire danger on open planting sites.
- Irrigation for broadacre crops is limited by well permits and infrastructure while some nurseries cope with large rainwater storage and closed-loop systems.