WE might have missed the big totals that were recorded on the coast and further to our north and west but any rainfall is the best news we can receive this year anywhere in the Hunter.
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Parched farms and gardens enjoyed the light steady rain that arrived on Friday and Saturday and continued to fall intermittently since.
So far, we've missed the horrendous hailstorms that have hit Melbourne, Canberra and Sydney.
Many long-term residents remember the devastation of the December 1996 hailstorm on Singleton.
The total so far ranges from about 30-51mm throughout the district with some higher and others lower but after 2019, a record dry and hot year, the change in weather conditions is perfect for tired firefighters. But, no doubt the NSW Rural Fire Service would want everyone to remain on alert as there has not yet been enough rain to completely put out the fires.
Plus as the storm cell moved through Lower Belford yesterday afternoon a grass fire on Standen Drive occurred - a warning that more heavy rain is needed before we are out of bushfire danger period. Lightning strikes, the cause of major bushfires this season, remain a threat.
With the next six days expected to reach temperatures above 35, including 41 degrees on Thursday with accompanying hot north westerly winds before possible storms and showers on Friday, bushfires remain a serious threat especially in areas that received less rainfall.