The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting above average rainfall in for southern Australia in February to April as a strong El Nino declines

But the bureau warns it will not be enough to break the drought.

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The latest long-range outlook suggests rainfall is more likely to be above average across much of southern Australia, with the strongest probability in the south-east, while the tropical north is expected to have a drier than average three months.

February will also be cooler than average across much of New South Wales and southern Queensland.

The bureau said while the rainfall forecast would be welcome in dry parts of southern Australia, a significant period of above average rain would be needed to recover from the long-term dry.

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Dr Paul Feikema of the Bureau of Meteorolgy said the breakdown of El Nino historically saw good rainfall in some, but not all, areas.

"While each El Nino is unique, during the break down phase we usually expect some wetter than normal conditions in parts of southern Australia."

Dr Feikema said despite some rain in January, short and long-term drought continued in many parts of the country.

"Long-term deficiencies, over three years persist, particularly in Queensland, northern New South Wales and Victoria."

He said lower layer soil moisture remained below average across much of eastern Australia, particularly in areas affected by long-term drought.