A delayed, erratic start with initial dry conditions in October- November is expected, while prospects improve nationally from December onwards, though northern areas may dry out again later in the season. Relatedly, temperatures will be warmer than average in October and November, followed by a cooler December. Thus overall, for the first half of the season, the southern and western regions are anticipated to receive normal to above-normal rain; while the northern provinces will have normal to below-normal rainfall.
