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Reservoir stocks across England are now at 68% capacity, with some as low as 24%, despite the above average rainfall seen in October and November.
This has led the National Drought Group to publicly call on water companies to start planning now to avoid supply interruptions next year.
The group, made up of experts from government, water firms, farming and environmental groups, has warned that farmers and growers are likely to experience the effects of drought into next year with further environmental damage expected as a result of drought stress.
On Monday (28 November) the West Midlands was moved from drought status to recovery, while Greater Manchester, Merseyside and Cheshire went from Prolonged Dry Weather to Normal status, reflecting the improved reservoir and river levels in these areas. However, some reservoirs remain well below levels expected at this time of year. These include Colliford reservoir in Cornwall, which remains at only 24% of capacity.
Environment Agency (EA) executive director John Leyland, who chairs the drought group urged members to “keep up our preparations for the worst-case scenario”.
He added: “Over winter we expect water companies to fix and reduce leaks, identify new sources of water and work with farmers, growers and other sectors to protect our precious water resources should drought remain next year.”
The EA also expects water firms to carry out contingency planning for freeze thaw events, to prevent further leaks and to “continue or enhance” winter communication campaigns with customers aimed at promoting water efficiency.
Rebecca Pow, who returned to the water minister brief at the end of last month having quit in the summer, said: “The recent rainfall will be a relief for many, but we should approach the improving drought situation with cautious optimism.
“I urge water companies to continue to plan their water resources and take precautionary steps to ensure water resilience. This includes emphasising to the public that water shouldn’t be taken for granted. The work of the National Drought Group is crucial in ensuring everyone plays a part in managing our precious water resources both in to next year and in the long term.”
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