If it is raining, it must be the weekend.
Well, that has been the trend in Dunedin since early last month.
Hydrological consultant Dave Stewart, of Dunedin, said rain had fallen in the city every weekend since July 12 and 13.
"Recently, New Zealand weather has been dominated by a pattern of anticyclones which can cause weekly cycles. If the pattern falls on a weekend we just get stuck with it," he said.
And not only has it rained more frequently, monthly rainfall has been far higher than in recent years.
On August 2 and 3, 60mm rainfall was recorded in Musselburgh and the Octagon, and 40mm at Dunedin International Airport.
Rainfall was higher the following weekend: 80mm was recorded at Musselburgh, 90mm in the Octagon and 65mm at Momona.
Since 1918, the August average rainfall at Musselburgh is 55mm.
Since readings were first taken in 1963, the average August rainfall at the airport is 45mm.
"We have to remember earlier this year we saw drought conditions. These cycles typically affect weather for between three to six weeks, and we are in the sixth week now, so must be getting towards the end of the cycle," he said.
But higher than usual rainfall may have a "silver lining" for farmers.
Soil moisture heading into spring is at its highest level for several years.
"If there's heat there shouldn't be a shortage of growth.
Farmers have commented to me that they are set up for best spring in years," Mr Stewart said.
The Metservice forecast coastal showers clearing today, with freshening northeasterlies later.
Tomorrow, light showers and easterly winds are expected.
In Central Otago, fine weather with high cloud and light winds is expected.
