Stats from Environment Canada show a major break in the drought in Southern Saskatchewan

June rainfall has provided much-needed relief from severe dry weather across much of the Saskatchewan grainbelt.

Environment Canada says June statistics show Regina had 77 millimeters, 8 percent above normal.

Rainfall in Moose Jaw reached 111 millimeters and Swift Current 147 millimeters, about twice the normal amount for both centres.

Provincial crops analyst Shannon Friesen says the moisture is very important for crop growth.

She says the moisture was desperately needed in the Moose Jaw-Swift Current area because of two very dry years.

She says crops and pastures have perked up a lot from the moisture.

But she says fields will need timely rains during the summer for continued crop development.

Friesen says the rain was bit late for some crops.

She adds the rain has also led to fresh weed growth.

Not all centres had abundant rainfall.

Environment Canada says rainfall in Estevan was 66 millimeters, 12 percent below normal while moisture in Yorkton was 75 millimeters or 6 percent below average.

Prince Albert is 19 percent below normal at 55 millimeters.

Precipitation