Severe drought is declared in parts of Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Somerset, East Sussex and West Sussex
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The Government has declared severe drought in parts of Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Somerset, East Sussex and West Sussex after an exceptionally dry spring and summer. The declaration means water companies must step up drought planning to protect public supplies, while millions of people remain under hosepipe restrictions.
The South East and South West had their driest April to September for more than a century. Ardingly Reservoir, serving 280,000 people in Sussex, was 20.2 per cent full, down from 22.8 per cent a week earlier; South East Water said supplies were under severe pressure and warned standpipes could return. Water demand has fallen by about five per cent, half the reduction the company had hoped for.
- Severe drought declared across parts of six counties.
- Ardingly Reservoir is 20.2 per cent full.
- Water companies are stepping up drought planning.
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Drought is declared when unusually low rainfall leaves rivers, reservoirs and groundwater short of water. A severe drought means water supplies need closer management and water companies must prepare measures to protect homes and businesses.
Water companies supply public water and manage reservoirs, while the Government sets the drought status. Restrictions such as hosepipe bans are used to reduce demand; if shortages worsen, companies may consider further steps to safeguard essential supplies.
Low water levels can also affect farming, wildlife and river habitats. The effects depend on how much rain falls and how quickly rivers, reservoirs and underground water sources recover.
Both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Declaring severe drought can prompt water companies and authorities to plan more urgently to protect essential public supplies, especially after exceptionally dry conditions and low reservoir levels. Restrictions and stronger preparation may be justified to reduce demand now and lower the risk of shortages, including standpipes, later.
The case against
A formal drought declaration and restrictions impose real costs and inconvenience on households and businesses, so they should be proportionate to the evidence and accompanied by clear plans to secure supply. Critics could argue that limited demand reductions show restrictions alone may not be enough, and that authorities should also explain what further measures water companies will take to manage the shortfall.
More coverage
- The Guardian — Severe drought declared in six areas of England as public water supplies under threat