RAINFALL AT CLIFTON IN 1878. 4^9 



Remarks. — The excessive rainfall which had been noted 

 during several preceding years, continued in 1878. Of the last 

 seven years all but one (1873) have had a rainfall above the average, 

 and the aggregate excess during this period has been upwards of 

 39 inches. 



The two wettest months in 1878 were October, with nearly 

 six inches of rain, and May, with only a little less. The driest 

 month was January, with rather more than an inch and a half. 



Diurnal falls exceeding one inch were recorded on five occasions 

 in as many different months. The heaviest fall of all was on the 

 31st of October and following night, when the rain and melted 

 snow measured together 1.698 inch. 



The most remarkable snow-storm of the year was that just 

 referred to. On the morning of the 1st of November, the 

 ground was covered with snow to the depth of four inches. The 

 damage to trees and shrubs was extraordinary, but may be explained 

 by a consideration of the wet and heavy character of the snow ; 

 the four inches which lay on the ground yielding, when melted, 

 nearly an inch of water, and representing, therefore, about 

 twelve inches of dry snow. 



