MUCH-NEEDED RAIN

Dominion, Volume 21, Issue 115, 13 February 1928, Page 8

MUCH-NEEDED RAIN

WELCOME DOWNPOUR IN MANAWATU BUT NO RELIEF AT MANGAHAO Dominion Special Service Palmerston North, February I'2. When late on Saturday night the heaviest rain that has been experienced in Palmerston North for a long time fell and drenched the parched Manawatu district it was felt that the position as regards the sllprtage of electric power would to a great extent be relieved ; but though the rain in the neighbourhood of Palmerston North was of a tropical nature, at Mangahao it was an almost negligible amount, and the position is unaltered. At the power bouse at Mangahao 0.6 inches of rain fell, but, extraordinarily, at the dam only 0.2 inches fell, which was almost useless, and it has made no material difference in the situation. In the words of the engineer at the works (Mr. Robinson), there is still every need for economy. The position at Tiritea to a certain extent lias greatly benefited by the downpour, though the extra supply gained will not ease the situation for long if another dry spell is experienced, as seems likely by the brilliant sunshine that has prevailed for the greater part of the day. Farmers who were in really urgent need of rain have greatly benefited. HEAVY RAIN AT WANGANUI Dominion Special Service. Wanganui, February 12. The drought in Wanganui was broken last night, when heavy rain commenc'd to fall at midnight. The city and suburbs were soon saturated. There was a lull for a period, but rain fell intermittently throughout in heavy and prolonged showers. To-day is dull and overcast. RAIN IN OTAGO Bv Telegraph.—Press association. Dunedin, February 11. Between 4 p.m. yesterday and 7 a.m. to-day, 1.31 inches of rain has fallen, relieving the drought conditions. Rain is also reported from Otago Central, where the drought was acute.