Journal of Agriculture. Victoria. [11 June, 1917. 



Victorian Rainfall — continued. 



N.B. — luu points = 1 inch. 



In the Mallee and north-eastern portions of the State the rains during 

 January were in excess of requirements, as the falls were too heavy to 

 be appreciated, especially after the three previous wet months. Over the 

 remainder of the State drier conditions prevailed, and the totals were 

 below average, except in the central soiith. where the figures were slightly 

 above or approximated the normal. The year opened with general 

 rains, which lasted during the first two days. These were due to mon- 

 soonal influences, and showers fell between the 4th and 9th owing to 

 the passage of an Antarctic depression, and froiu the 18th to 22nd light 

 scattered rain was recorded south of the Divide. The flood rains last 

 year prevented early anticipations of crop records materializing along 

 the courses of the Campaspe and Goulburn, and in some parts complete 

 failures eventuated; but in the Mallee and Wimmera excellent harvests 

 and some phenomenal results were realized. The delay in harvesting 

 was not beneficial in the western and central districts, but in the north- 

 central parts crops turned out well ; and, as grass and water throughout 

 the State were more than sufficient for requirements, the stock were in 

 excellent condition. All northern areas in February were much above 

 average rainfall, the Mallee receiving more than three times the usual 

 amount, other districts more than twice the normal. These excessive 

 rains were caused by monsoonal disturbances, which were frequent 

 during the month. As is usual in cases of much cloud and heavv rains. 



