Paul Rosser 
It was the driest December in 10 years for Aldinga. We had 3.0mm in December, taking the YTD to 492.5mm. We didn’t reach that magical 500.0mm. With that dry December, what were slightly above average soil moisture is now well and truly back to average, so watering your gardens and fruit trees is wise.
How did we compare with the previous 10 years?
YEAR December ANNUAL TOTAL
2021 3.0mm 492.5mm (4)
2020 14.0mm 481.5mm
2019 4.0mm 359.0mm
2018 21.5mm 353.5mm
2017 34.0mm 507.0mm (2)
2016 59.5mm 670.0mm (1)
2015 13.0mm 420.0mm
2014 14.0mm 378.0mm
2013 13.0mm 491.0mm
2012 7.0mm 498.0mm (3)
2011 31.0mm NA
That gives us an average of 465.0mm over the last 10 years. So, for us it wasn’t a bad year, our third wettest over the 10-year period.
So, we start a new weather sheet for 2022. What will 2022 bring us?
January to March looks like an average quarter for rainfall, soil moisture, day and night time temperatures (with a few hot ones for good measure), fire risk normal. Our main indicators of rain will be the Indian Ocean & Arafura Sea which remain warm. That will mean we will have a Tropical Cyclone possibility above average, as I stated last month. Look for a TC that hits Broome & we are in with a chance of a 25.0mm dump. It would be nice for us but not so nice for them.
On the bushfire front, I always feel safer when the farmer on the top of Bowering Hill takes the head of his crop and does his hay bailing. He’s done that prior to Xmas.
Everyone should cut back shrubs and trees close to their houses and outbuildings, not just the home owners on the urban boundaries. Most importantly, check your home and contents insurance covers, for peace of mind. It may sound silly but it will help you decide to leave if you really need to, knowing your home is covered.
Have a happy New Year, a safe time & hopefully a time of good health and happiness.
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