UK Faces Drought as Reservoir Levels Plummet to Lowest in 69 Years

Strategic Insights -

The UK is enduring its driest start to spring in 69 years, with water levels in reservoirs sharply dropping. In north-west England, reservoir levels sit at 69 per cent full, far below the 90 per cent at this time last year. The Environment Agency has warned that England is facing a summer drought without sustained rainfall, urging water companies to reduce leaks and help customers save water.

Key Takeaways:

  • Reservoir levels in north-west England are at 69 per cent full, a significant drop from the 90 per cent at this time last year.
  • The Environment Agency has warned that England is facing a summer drought without sustained rainfall.
  • Water companies are being urged to reduce leaks and help customers save water to mitigate the drought.
  • The dry weather has already affected reservoirs such as Wayoh, Haweswater, and Thirlmere, with significant decreases in water levels.
  • The Environment Agency has warned that water companies might have to implement hosepipe restrictions if the dry weather continues.
  • Each person uses about 140 litres of water a day on average.
  • England has seen its driest start to spring since 1956, with half the expected rainfall in April and only a quarter of the long-term average in March.

Statistics:

  • 69 per cent: current reservoir levels in north-west England
  • 90 per cent: reservoir levels at this time last year in north-west England
  • 2 mm: average rainfall in north-east, central, and eastern England over the last week
  • 1 mm: average rainfall in the rest of the country over the last week
  • 6 mm-37 mm: average rainfall three weeks ago
  • 140 litres: average daily water usage per person
  • 1956: last time England experienced its driest start to spring

Sources:

  • United Utilities
  • Environment Agency: "England faces potential summer drought without sustained rainfall" (no date)
  • BBC: "Drought warning as reservoirs drop to lowest levels in 69 years" (no date)
  • Christian Aid: "Rising temperatures and climate-related disease threaten bananas" (no date)