Weather

Is Your Farm Ready for El Niño?

With El Niño conditions expected to influence New Zealand’s weather this season, now is a good time for potato growers to take a look around the farm and make sure everything is prepared for whatever spring and summer may bring.

What is El Niño?

El Niño is a natural climate pattern that occurs when ocean temperatures in the tropical Pacific change, influencing weather patterns around the world. In New Zealand, El Niño can bring stronger westerly winds, more frequent weather fronts and, in some regions, an increased likelihood of drier conditions through spring and summer.

What Could This Mean for Potato Growers?

For potato growers, changing weather patterns can affect irrigation demand, soil moisture, crop establishment and harvesting conditions. While every season is different, a farm readiness check now can help reduce disruption later.

A Quick Farm Readiness Checklist

Take a walk around the property and check:

Buildings and infrastructure

  • Are shed roofs, guttering and flashing secure?
  • Do shed doors and windows close properly?
  • Are fuel tanks, chemical stores and irrigation equipment protected from strong winds?

Irrigation systems

  • Are pumps, pipes and generators serviced and ready for increased demand if conditions become dry?
  • Have water storage levels and contingency plans been reviewed?

Drainage

  • Are drains, culverts and waterways clear and functioning properly?
  • Are low lying areas identified in case of heavy rainfall events?

Crop and storage areas

  • Are potato stores weather tight and well ventilated?
  • Are grading and handling facilities prepared for changing conditions?

Trees and shelterbelts

  • Remove dead branches that could damage buildings, vehicles or equipment during strong winds.
  • Check shelterbelts for any maintenance requirements.

Power and communications

  • Do you have charged torches, backup batteries and emergency contact details easily accessible?
  • Is there a plan in place if power is interrupted during irrigation or storage operations?

Health and safety

  • Ensure staff know emergency procedures.
  • Check that first aid supplies are stocked and accessible.

The Golden Rule

If it can blow away, secure it. If it can leak, fix it. If it can fail when you need it most, inspect it now.

A small amount of preparation today could save significant time, cost and stress later in the season.

National Rural Support Trust
For practical advice and rural wellbeing resources, visit the Rural Support Trust YouTube channel >>. and their website: www.rural-support.org.nz

National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA)
View NIWA’s latest seasonal outlook and climate information >>

MetService Rural Weather
Check MetService’s forecasts and weather information specific to farming operations >>

Being prepared for changing weather conditions is an important part of managing risk on farm. Taking a proactive approach now can help ensure the season gets off to the best possible start.

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