North Wales Declared in Drought Status Amidst Record Breaking Summer

Strategic Insights -

A severe drought has been declared for North Wales following a record-breaking summer. The region has been plunged into drought status due to extended hot and dry weather, which has significantly impacted Wales's rivers, groundwaters, land, and wildlife. Despite welcome rainfall in some areas, the environmental effects of the drought are still being felt, with streams drying up, fish found in distress, and significant wildfires impacting the region.

Key Takeaways:

  • The drought in North Wales is a result of six months of dry weather, the driest period since 1976, which has caused river flows and groundwater levels to drop below historic lows.
  • The decision to declare drought status was made after NRW's incident hotline received reports of environmental impacts, including streams drying up and fish found in distress.
  • Significant wildfires have impacted the Newborough National Nature reserve and the Welsh Government Woodland Estate.
  • The drought is expected to have long-term effects on the environment, agriculture, and land management in North Wales.
  • Water companies have confirmed that drinking water supplies remain safe, but people are advised to use water wisely to help ease pressures on the environment and water supplies.
  • NRW is urging people to report environmental incidents, such as dry river beds, fish in distress, or pollution, via their online incident form or 24-hour hotline.

Statistics:

  • The six-month period between February and July was the driest since 1976, with a rainfall total of 555mm (January to July 2025).
  • Wales received only 22.43% of the monthly average rainfall as of August 26, 2025.
  • The majority of river flows across Wales are low or exceptionally low, as are groundwater levels.
  • The period between February and July was the 16 driest in 190 years.
  • The total rainfall for 2025 so far stands at 555mm (January to July), similar to conditions in 2022, when the whole of Wales was placed into drought status by September.

Sources:

  • Natural Resources Wales (NRW)
  • The Met Office
  • Wales Environment Agency
  • Hafren Dyfrdwy
  • Dūr Cymru Welsh Water
  • Ben Wilson, Principal Advisor, NRW