2026 Seasonal forecast: It’s going to rain, but when and how much?

Seasonal climate outlooks can inform planning, but they are only one part of farm decision-making.In this episode, Dr Meredith Guthrie, from the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) and Phil Smyth, northern Wheatbelt agronomist from Nutrien Coorow, talk about the 2026 seasonal outlook.Meredith explains current climate drivers, how to interpret climate model probabilities and how the potential development of an El Niño and a positive Indian Ocean Dipole may result in 2026 looking a bit like the difficult year of 2023.They then go on to discuss what these forecasts may mean for growers, including dry sowing, crop selection, managing input costs, and making the most of early rainfall opportunities.The conversation highlights the importance of using forecasts as guidance while focusing on sound management decisions throughout the season and how there is always space for hope.This episode is brought to you by the South-West WA Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hub and is hosted by Dr Mary-Anne Glanzlowe.Long-range weather, climate and water availability - Bureau of MeteorologySeasonal Climate Outlook - Department of Primary Industries and Regional DevelopmentLong-range forecasts: weeks, months and seasons - Bureau of MeteorologyHub news - Drought Hub