Dullest May In 10 Years

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31079, 7 June 1966, Page 20

Dullest May In 10 Years

Last month was the dullest May for 10 years, according to meteorological observations made at Lincoln College. Only 103.4 hours of sunshine were recorded, compared with 125 in May last year, 126.9 in 1964 and 141.3 in 1963.

Cool, damp conditions persisted throughout much of the month. There were 14 frosts, three more than last year, though few were hard, and the average temperature. 45.5 degrees, was lower than usual.

The highest temperature—--60.3 degrees—was more than eight degrees lower than the maximum in May last year. The lowest was 27 degrees, and the minimum grass temperature 20.4 degrees. Rainfall,-at 2.25 in, was below the average. With the overcast weather drying was poor, and wet or sticky ground hindered the drilling of partridge peas and autumn wheat early in the month, and restricted cultivation later. Pastures, young grass and greenfeed grew slowly.

There was some foot trouble among ewes, while young sheep appeared listless during the dull spells. Some farmers started hand feeding.

Minor Injuries. Charles Kenneth Baker, of 14 Beckford road, was treated at the Christchurch Hospital for minor head injuries after a collision between two cars at the corner of Tuam and Madras streets about 2-50 p.m. yesterday.