Water restrictions expand as drought deepens

National drought measures prompt restrictions as rainfall remains well below average.

Drought tightens water rules across England

England is facing a drought described as nationally significant. The National Drought Group met to discuss water-saving actions as rainfall stays well below average. Five areas are in drought while reservoirs and chalk streams run low. July rainfall was only 89% of the long-term average, and the Wye and Great Ouse were at record low July levels. Forecasts from the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology warn the dry spell could continue into August and October, with groundwater and river flows likely to stay low. The group includes the Met Office, Environment Agency, water companies, farmers, anglers, and conservation groups.

Water firms are preparing to tighten rules. Southern Water has applied for a non-essential use ban to stop activities like filling swimming pools and washing windows, and has sought an emergency order to draw water from a chalk stream. Canals are being closed to navigation due to low water, farmers face crop losses, and anglers report more fish kills as rivers run lower. Officials say quick fixes like fixing leaks and reducing demand are essential as authorities monitor weather and plan for autumn.

The drought underscores how fragile the balance is between supply and demand in a changing climate. The National Drought Group’s coordinated approach shows how government, regulators, and utilities must align with farmers and conservationists to weather dry spells. Public messaging will matter as restrictions tighten, especially if rainfall falters through late summer and into autumn. The case also spotlights infrastructure gaps, from aging pipes to the dependence on chalk streams for usable water. Expect debates about leaky networks, pricing, and the affordability of resilience projects come autumn.

Highlights

More measures may follow as the drought deepens.