THE WEATHER AND THE CROPS.

Oamaru Mail, Volume IV, Issue 1169, 15 January 1880, Page 2

THE WEATHER AND THE CROPS.

The crops generally did not suffer to so great an extent from yesterday's heavy rain as was feared, but still a large amount of damage has been done. Some of the heavy crops have been beaten down to a very great extent, and it will be difficult

to harvest them. In many cases the use of reaping machines will be almost, if not entirely, out of the question, and it is probable that hand reaping will have to be resorted to. It .is to be hoped that the fine weather that has now set in will continue, but it is still far from promising to do so. (from our own correspondent.) Paxmerston, January 15. The heavy and continuous rainfall of Tuesday night and yesterday has 'done serious injury to the crops throughout the district, which previously gave assurance of an abundant harvest. lam informed that, in numerous instances where the grain was unusually heavy, it is now, through the rain, completely laid low, and in many places which showed a prospect of as fine a harvest as any. farmer could desire the prospect now is gloomy indeed. The weather at present is fine, but far from being settled. (per press association.) Christchurch, January 14. It rained very heavily this morning, and cleared up in the afternoon. No reports of damage to the crops have yet been received, but there is no doubt a great deal of harm must have been caused. January 15. The weather is warm this morning. The recent thirty-six hours' rain has laid many tall crops in the northern districts. It is hoped that a-few days' sunshine will put matters right, though the reaping machines will in any case have heavy tasks in dealing with" the majority of the crops in the Ashley County. Dunedin, January 14. Heavy rain commenced early this morning, and fell all day. January 15. The weather is now very warm. Ashburton, January 14. Heavy rain fell throughout the country yesterday, and continued till this afternoon. It has now cleared up, but does not look at all settled. Harvest operations have been retarded in consequence and some of the late crops have been badly laid. Blenheim, January 14. The damage to the crops through the past four days' rain is comparatively slight. A continuance would have been disastrous in its effects. Nelson, January 14. Grave fears are entertained for the harvest, consequent on the rain, which still continues heavy.