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Drought
A region is considered to be in drought when rainfall is significantly low for at least three months. Because of the wide range of average rainfalls across Australia, the rainfall recorded during a drought in a coastal area may be higher than the average rainfall recorded at an inland location.
There is a strong correlation between droughts in Australia and the El Niño effect. The Southern Oscillation Index (SOI) is used to predict rainfall in eastern Australia. A prolonged negative SOI reading is related to drought and a positive SOI reading indicates higher than average rainfall.
Possible risks and suggested strategies to reduce harm
Dehydration due to failure of watering points
- Carry additional water supplies for staff, vehicles, horses and dogs.
Manual handling accidents moving stock feed and rescuing dehydrated/bogged stock
- DO NOT attempt to lift/move objects that are too heavy.
- Seek assistance.
- Use machinery or vehicles where appropriate.
- Consider the animal’s welfare if moving weak or bogged stock.
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