The NSW Government is facing mounting pressure to prepare for drought. 

Calls for proactive measures from the state government are intensifying, with the opposition demanding comprehensive preparation against the looming dry spell.

The state’s Department of Primary Industries has officially designated sections of four additional local government areas in NSW as drought-affected.

The Coalition opposition is urging transparency from the government regarding its strategy to combat drought.

Anticipating the shift from a La Niña to an El Niño weather pattern, Premier Chris Minns says he is preparing to address the issue in the upcoming budget release.

The recent declaration by the Department of Primary Industries has extended the list of drought-affected regions to include parts of Clarence, Mid-Coast, Dungog, and Port Stephens local government areas. 

Additionally, for the second consecutive month, South Casino, situated in the Northern Rivers region, remains under the drought classification.

The drought-stricken areas now encompass significant sections of the North Coast, Hunter, Northern Tablelands, North West, and South East regions. 

Dugald Saunders, the opposition's spokesperson for agriculture, is pressing for a detailed plan from the government to tackle the worsening drought scenario. 

Acknowledging the transition from a rain-friendly La Niña pattern to the drier El Niño pattern, Premier Chris Minns has underlined the necessity of preparedness. 

He says he is willing to heed the requests of NSW Farmers Association and ensure the state is adequately equipped for the impending drought season.