Is drought a possibility?
6th May 2011
added 6/6/11 - Information courtesy of the Environment Agency and the Met Office
The Met Office has reported that this has been the warmest April since records began in 1910 with temperatures having been 3-5°C higher than usual and the 11th driest April for 100 years. The average UK rainfall total was 36.7mm – a fraction over half of the long-term average.
The Environment Agency latest figures reveal that nationally, 61 per cent of expected rainfall has fallen in the last three months (including April). This 39 per cent drop from the average rainfall has led to reduced river levels in some parts of the country. Although there are reduced water levels in some areas, forward drought planning has reduced any risk of early restrictions on public water supplies such as hose pipe bans. However, conserving water now, by using water wisely, is an important action for all to reduce risks of restrictions in the future and help to protect the environment.
The EA confirmed that flows in some rivers are lower than expected at this time of the year in the south west, central and eastern England where some parts have only received 46% of expected rainfall. However, most reservoirs and aquifers are at normal levels for the time of year following rainfall in January and February.
At this stage, it is unlikely that water companies will impose restrictions on their customers during the spring or summer this year. However, if the dry weather continues, it is possible that farmers in some parts may be asked to reduce the amount of water they take from rivers. There are NO spray irrigation restrictions in place.
While public water supplies are likely to be unaffected in the short term, the concern is that the continuing dry weather may affect wildlife, including fish and plant life in and around rivers and lakes. This is due to the reduced river flows and lower water levels in lakes and ponds.
Hot dry spells are a normal part of most years and the Environment Agency, water companies and other water users such as farmers and industry have developed plans to cope with these without restricting water use in the short term.
Click here for the Environment Agency Rainfall report 3/5/11
