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Global monitoring

The effects of major drought


Global monitoring

Meteorologists need up-to-date information on global climate patterns for early warning and monitoring of drought. Under the umbrella of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), the Bureau participates in and contributes to international weather and climate watch programs. The WMO's new Climate Information and Prediction Services (CLIPS) project is designed to enable member nations to make the most of new abilities to monitor and predict seasonal climate variations.

Drought years


The Effects of major drought
1864-66 All States affected except Tasmania. 1963-68 Widespread drought. Also longest drought in arid central Australia: 1958-67. The last two years saw a 40 per cent drop in wheat harvest, a loss of 20 million sheep, and a decrease in farm income of $300-500 million
1880-86 Southern and eastern States affected.
1895-1903 Sheep numbers halved and more than 40 per cent loss of cattle. Most devastating drought in terms of stock losses.
1911-16 Loss of 19 million sheep and 2 million cattle. 1972-73 Mainly in eastern Australia.
1918-20 Only parts of Western Australia free from drought. 1982-83 Total loss estimated in excess of $3000 million. Most intense drought in terms of vast areas affected.
1939-45 Loss of nearly 30 million sheep between 1942 and 1945. 1991-95 Average production by rural industries fell about 10 per cent, resulting in possible $5 billion cost to the Australian economy, $590 million drought relief provided by the Commonwealth Government between September 1992 and December 1995.