Drought has been declared across Yorkshire by the Environment Agency, the BBC reports, after months of unusually low rain left rivers and underground water sources at critical levels. The agency says the period from April to September was the fifth driest on record for the region.
Key points
- Drought declared — Yorkshire joins all of central, southern and eastern England in drought status.
- Fifth driest April to September — Rivers and groundwater in parts of the region are very low.
- Weekly meetings — The National Drought Group now meets every week to coordinate the response.
- More rain needed — New research suggests 120% of long-term average rainfall over the next seven months would be needed for England to exit drought.
Vicki Townend, the Environment Agency's area environment manager for Yorkshire, said the region had reached its trigger point for a drought declaration. She said that even several weeks of rain would not quickly undo the damage caused by such a dry spring and summer. The agency will keep monitoring the situation and put its Yorkshire Drought Plan into action.
"Even if we receive a few weeks of rain, we cannot quickly reverse the effects of the lack of rainfall during a very dry spring and summer."
The National Drought Group, which brings together government, the Met Office, regulators, water companies, farmers, the Canal & River Trust, anglers and conservation experts, is meeting weekly to keep watch and coordinate action. Ministers are also checking that water companies are following their drought plans, fixing leaks quickly and reducing demand. A strengthened Water Bill aims to start a decade-long overhaul of the water system, including nine new major reservoirs.
The Environment Agency is processing drought permit applications so water companies can take less water from local rivers, protecting public supplies while balancing the needs of the environment and wildlife. The public can report environmental incidents on the 24/7 hotline 0800 80 70 60.
What it means in practice
The drought declaration for Yorkshire means that water conservation is no longer just a good idea – it is a practical necessity for households and businesses across a huge swathe of England. While the immediate effect is mostly advice rather than strict rules, the pressure on supplies could lead to restrictions later if the dry weather continues. People in affected areas should expect to see more messages about saving water and may face temporary bans on using hosepipes if companies decide to act.
- Check your water company's advice — Many firms offer free water-saving devices and tips; using less now can help avoid tougher restrictions.
- Report leaks promptly — If you spot a leak in the street or a burst pipe, tell your water company straight away. Quick repairs reduce waste.
- Plan for possible hosepipe bans — Gardeners and car owners may want to think about alternative ways to water plants and clean vehicles if restrictions come in.
