Low Rainfall Raises Reservoir Concerns as Severe Drought Declared in Parts of Southern England
Drought status announced
The Environment Agency declared a severe drought across parts of southern England following months of low rainfall. The decision came after a meeting of the National Drought Group, which considered water resources and drought conditions across England. The government said concerns about two major reservoirs were behind the change: Ardingly in West Sussex and Wimbleball in Somerset.
Monitoring and compliance measures
Ministers have instructed water companies to check reservoir and river levels every day. They have also called for tougher monitoring of water quality. The Environment Agency will increase compliance checks on businesses that take water from natural sources. The checks are intended to ensure those businesses withdraw only permitted amounts.
Agency chief warns of pressure
Environment Agency chief executive Philip Duffy said record-breaking summer heat and severe drought had placed water resources under intense pressure. He said water companies were expected to follow their drought plans and take necessary steps to secure public water supplies.
Key points
- The National Drought Group reviewed water resources and drought conditions across England.
- Ardingly in West Sussex and Wimbleball in Somerset were cited as specific concerns.
- Water companies face daily level monitoring, while businesses taking natural water will face more compliance checks.