Drought is a recurring natural hazard in Northland, with eight severe droughts recorded since 1900. To improve understanding of drought occurrence, severity and duration, NIWA analysed rainfall data from 298 rain gauges across the region using the Standardised Precipitation Index (SPI).
The study found that the most severe drought years were 1987, 1913 and 1990, while the longest drought years were 2019, 1993 and 1913. No significant long-term trend was found in drought occurrence, and no specific drought-prone areas were identified, indicating that drought can occur anywhere in Northland.
However, local climate variability, topography and other regional influences also play a significant role in shaping weather patterns and drought risk.
The findings provide valuable information to support drought monitoring, water management and future planning across Northland.
Published: 13 Jul 2024