last updated 3rd February 06
By 4ecotips.com

Some parts of UK experiencing second dry winter

Continuing below average rainfall in December and January (40% in most of England and Wales) have increased the concern felt by water resource professionals in drought affected south-east England. In some areas rainfall has now been below average for 15 months running, according to Water UK.

The prospect of two sequential dry winters is particularly worrying. Delayed or non-existent groundwater recharge and rivers flowing at well under average levels make problems for the water environment and public supply more likely in the months ahead.

The majority of UK water companies report that current water resources will allow them to maintain normal supplies in the year ahead.

However, some companies in the South East, including those that introduced restrictions last year, are warning that further measures will be needed unless rainfall is significantly above average for the rest of the winter. The industry could apply for drought permits allowing them to take more water from, or release less water to, the environment in order to replenish stocks. Tighter restrictions on non-essential use could also be necessary.

All companies are telling their customers about the importance of treating water as a precious resource. In the drought affected areas companies are strenghtening their messages about water efficiency and the importance of avoiding waste in present circumstances.

Water companies work closely with the Environment Agency to ensure that policy decisions are coordinated and we make the best use of scarce resources. This week the Environment Agency granted Southern Water a drought permit which allows the company to abstract more water from the river Medway to increase levels in Bewl Water; at 36% the reservoir is at its lowest since construction in the 1970s.

Water companies follow a set process during periods of water stress. All have drought plans agreed with government and regulators which lay out the process to be followed.

The drought plans point to indicators like low rainfall, low reservoir levels or high demand, which trigger actions such as more intense publicity for using water wisely, a focus on leak reduction in specific areas, or bringing new or dormant supply into use.