Businesses are being warned by the Bureau of Meteorology's National Climate Centre to prepare for another wave of drought, with an El Niño event likely to occur later this year.
Head of Climate Analysis, David Jones, said in a statement that if the current weather patterns continue, by mid-winter an El Niño event will be set to occur.
"This view is supported by several computer forecasts of El Niño, which have firmed in their predictions of an event in 2009," Jones said.
The Bureau warns that the eastern, northern and southern areas of Australia must prepare for lower than average rainfall levels, and above-average daytime temperatures.
It also warns that businesses in these areas should contact their State Departments of Agriculture or Primary Industry for planning advice.
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