North Wales Declared in Drought Status Amidst Hot and Dry Weather

Strategic Insights -

Natural Resources Wales has moved the region of North Wales into drought status following reports of streams drying up, "fish in distress" and other environmental impacts. The decision was made despite some welcome rainfall in the region, highlighting the prolonged effects of the hot and dry weather on Wales's rivers, groundwaters, land, and wildlife.

Key Takeaways:

  • North Wales has been declared in drought status due to reports of streams drying up, "fish in distress", and other environmental impacts, according to Natural Resources Wales (NRW).
  • NRW has announced that the region will remain in drought status despite some welcome rainfall, with concerns about the impacts witnessed by their teams on the ground and members of the public.
  • Stream drying up and fish found in distress have been reported in North Wales, with significant wildfires impacting the Newborough National Nature reserve over the bank holiday weekend.
  • Adult salmon mortalities have been reported in south east Wales due to low flows and consistently high river temperatures, with advice circulated to the angling community.
  • Water companies confirm that drinking water supplies remain safe, and Dwr Cymru Welsh Water has confirmed no plans for temporary use (hosepipe) bans.
  • People and businesses are advised to follow advice from Dwr Cymru Welsh Water and Hafren Dyfrdwy, and continue to use water wisely to help ease pressures on the environment and water supplies.

Statistics:

  • Wales has received 555mm rainfall from January to July 2025, which is almost as dry as conditions in 2022, where the whole of Wales was placed into drought status by September.
  • As of Tuesday, Wales had only received 22.43% of the monthly average rainfall.
  • The majority of river flows across Wales are therefore low or exceptionally low, as are groundwater levels.
  • The period between February and July (2025) has been the 16th driest in 190 years, and the driest since 1976.

Sources:

  • Natural Resources Wales (NRW) statement
  • Ben Wilson, principal advisor at Natural Resources Wales
  • Met Office, for August Bank Holiday weather data
  • Dwr Cymru Welsh Water, for drinking water supply information