Southern England reservoirs face critically low levels before Christmas
Ministers have been warned that reservoirs in parts of southern England could reach critically low levels within weeks, raising concerns about water supplies before Christmas. Cobra is holding twice-weekly meetings, and officials have prepared plans for a “day zero” scenario in which reservoirs run dry.
Wimbleball in Somerset and Ardingly in West Sussex were reported at 13 and 17 per cent capacity, respectively, though later figures in the article give 14 and 19 per cent. Water companies say they do not expect those reservoirs to run dry imminently, and supplies could be transferred from elsewhere. Officials say rainfall would need to be 120 per cent above average over the next six months for a nationwide recovery; measures include leak repairs, water transfers and daily monitoring, while restricting reservoir releases could put fish at risk.
In short
- Reservoir levels in parts of southern England are critically low.
- Water companies say they do not expect the named reservoirs to run dry imminently.
- A nationwide recovery would require rainfall 120 per cent above average for six months.
Explained simply
Reservoirs store water for homes, businesses and the environment, and their levels depend on rainfall, river flows and how much water is taken out. Southern England has faced dry conditions, leaving some reservoirs unusually low.
Water companies manage supplies and can move water between areas, while ministers and officials coordinate responses to risks affecting several regions. Cobra is the government’s emergency committee; its meetings and contingency plans help prepare for a possible serious shortage.
Low reservoir levels can affect household supplies, farming and wildlife. Actions such as repairing leaks or limiting water releases may help conserve water, though restrictions can also affect fish and other river life.
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Originally published by Daily Mail as “‘Day Zero’ where UK reservoirs run dry could happen before Christmas, ministers are secretly warned”.