The water scarcity situation in England has been labeled a “nationally significant incident,” with five regions officially facing drought conditions ahead of an amber heat health alert covering extensive areas of the country.
The government has cautioned that the dry spell could persist until mid-Autumn, with six additional regions enduring prolonged dry conditions following the driest six-month period up to July since 1976.
Despite some storms and showers in July, many rivers and water reservoirs in England are still experiencing declining levels compared to June. This trend occurred even though July was noted as the fifth-warmest on record.
The five drought-affected areas in England are Yorkshire; Cumbria and Lancashire; Greater Manchester, Merseyside, and Cheshire; East Midlands; and West Midlands.
The National Drought Group convened to strategize water conservation efforts nationwide. Environment Secretary Steve Reed briefed Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Pat McFadden, on the risks posed by the persistent dry weather.
Water companies are gearing up to implement more stringent measures to preserve water resources as stocks continue to deplete.
Southern Water, which has imposed a hosepipe ban on some customers, has sought approval for a non-essential use ban to prohibit activities like filling swimming pools or cleaning windows.
The UK experienced a series of dry months, with only June in 2025 recording above-average rainfall.
The UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology has warned that the arid conditions may extend well into October, escalating pressure on water supplies due to critically low levels in rivers, reservoirs, and aquifers following an exceptionally dry spring and summer.
Dr. Wilson Chan from the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology emphasized the urgency for above-average rainfall over several months to alleviate strain on water resources.
August has ushered in drier conditions and the fourth heatwave of the summer, further straining already challenged public water supplies and waterways.
The National Drought Group, comprising the Met Office, government entities, regulators, water companies, the National Farmers’ Union, Canal & River Trust, anglers, and conservation experts, highlighted water-saving measures across sectors during their recent meeting.
They commended the public for reducing daily water consumption, with Yorkshire Water reporting a 10% drop in domestic demand post-hosepipe ban, saving up to 80 million liters per day.
The EA’s Director of Water and NDG chair, Helen Wakeham, urged collective action to alleviate pressure on water resources and safeguard the environment.
Recent rainfall has been beneficial for growers, although the repercussions of prolonged dry weather persist as farmers continue their harvest, impacting the growing season.
NFU Vice-president Rachel Hallos highlighted the challenges faced by farmers due to severe dry conditions, emphasizing the need for coordinated communication and investment in water infrastructure to ensure sustainable water supplies for food production.
Dry spells and low river levels diminish oxygen levels, potentially leading to fish fatalities and increased algal blooms, restricting wildlife movement in water bodies.
Chief Meteorologist at the Met Office, Dr. Will Lang, outlined the weather conditions for the upcoming weeks, indicating warmer temperatures and potential unsettled weather patterns in certain regions.
The heatwave and climate change also pose health risks such as heat-related illnesses and respiratory issues.
Water Minister Emma Hardy emphasized the government’s proactive response to managing the impacts of continuous dry weather, urging water companies to adhere to drought plans and accelerate water-saving initiatives.
Hardy underlined the impending water scarcity crisis, highlighting the government’s reform initiatives, including substantial private investments to bolster water infrastructure for long-term resilience.
