Australian farmers are on tenterhooks with a 50% chance of an El Niño dry weather pattern arriving later this year.

El Niño alert

Some climate models forecast the pattern could develop into a ‘super El Niño’. That would mean very high temperatures around the equator centring on the Pacific Ocean.

Research shows a typical El Niño delivers large-scale climate variability. This accelerates crop loss, thereby posing a severe risk to global food security.

A UN report on lessons learnt from the last El Niño recommends agricultural risk management approaches, including switching to drought-resistant crops, creating disaster prevention plans and build capacity to adapt to climate related hazards.

Shift away from water-intensive crops

If the forecast predicts less rain, can you shift from thirsty crops to those which deliver more per unit of water? Check with your local agronomist for suitable crops bred to survive harsher conditions in your climatic region.

Install drip irrigation

Drip irrigation is more efficient than sprinklers, which have a higher water evaporation rate. Drip irrigation also cuts the risks of disease, soil erosion and fertiliser leaching. A downside is the initial installation cost.

Caring for livestock

During extreme heat, be sure to have measures in place to protect your animals, including having access to plentiful of water, appropriate refuge from the heat, and have a plan to manage heat stress.

Revisit your risk management

There are plenty of evidence-based strategies Australian farmers can use to better prepare for what a possible El Niño might deliver. But, be mindful that there is no actual consensus on classifying or measuring ‘readiness’ for El Niño. The approach over the years has been more reactive than strategic.

If you would like to know more about preparing for El Nino in 2023, please CLICK HERE, or contact us for more information.