Drought declared in the East Midlands

The Environment Agency has declared drought status for the East Midlands following the driest spring in 132 years.

The Environment Agency announced the change in status today (15) following declining river flows and groundwater levels, with some river flows in the regions at their lowest for June since 1976.

The decision sees the regulator stepping up its operational response, while making sure water companies deliver the actions agreed in their drought plans.

The announcement comes as the National Drought Group meets to discuss next steps with people being asked to play their part and use water wisely.

The East Midlands follows other regions that have moved into drought recently, including the north-west of England and Yorkshire.

Matt Gable, regional incident lead at the Environment Agency, said: “Against a backdrop of a changing climate, this change of status recognises the impact prolonged dry weather is having on water resources and the environment.

“In the Midlands, we are taking action to reduce that impact and to oversee the actions water companies need to take to secure public water supplies.

“We are also encouraging people to play their part through the rest of the summer period by noting the small steps we can all take to save water.”

In the Midlands, river levels are already low with some river flows in the region at their lowest for June since 1976. The Trent catchment has only 37% of its long-term average for June.

Environment Agency teams are out on the ground actively monitoring river levels, with staff working with the water sector to ensure there is enough water for the people and the environment.  

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Teams are also supporting farmers and abstractors with advice on how to manage abstraction during prolonged dry weather and low flows.  Fisheries teams are responding where necessary to protect fish which are struggling due to reduced oxygen or moving them if the river has dried up and they have become stranded.

The Environment Agency says it expects water companies to step up their work to fix leaks and adjust their operations to conserve water. 

The public is being asked to think about how they use water at home and in the garden, and to comply with any local restrictions.

A spokesman said: “The less water you use at the home, the more water there is in your local environment.  Recreational water users – such as anglers, swimmers, and boaters – are being asked to remain vigilant and report any environmental issues they see, such as fish in distress, acting as important eyes and ears on the ground.”