Lancashire avoids drought status but water levels are low in many places

Half of England has been declared in drought by the Environment Agency after a record-breaking spring and summer of heatwaves and prolonged dry weather.

The agency has described how large areas of central, eastern, and southern England are now experiencing a 'flash drought' - the term used to describe a drought that forms over a few days, weeks or months in extreme conditions, rather than gradually over years.

Lancashire is not on the list but, following recent heatwaves, total reservoir stocks in the region sit at 66.7%, below the 71.5% average for the time of the year.

The River Ribble (tested at Walton le Dale, Penwortham and Samlesbury), River Lostock (tested Bamber Bridge) , River Brock at A6 Bridge, and Boyces Brook at Ribchester and River Wyre at St Michaels are amid a list of Lancashire waterways recorded at low levels. Many others are recorded normal but falling.

Helen Wakeham, director of water at the Environment Agency said: "We are currently using water quicker than nature can replenish it."

July has seen just 7% of expected rainfall, falling to 1% across southern England - and there is no substantial rain on the way.

Combined with three heatwaves, including 12 consecutive days of temperatures above 30C, the country's water storage has begun to deplete. A fourth heatwave is now underway.

The low rainfall and soaring temperatures has resulted in extremely high rates of evaporation from the ground - leaving soil, plants and crops without water and resulting in a flash drought.

The result, the agency says, is rivers running low, farmers harvesting crops early, wildfire risk increasing and millions living under hose pipe bans. And the impact of low water levels has already been observed on local wildlife.

A lack of rainfall to top up spawning pools and increased evaporation significantly impact the breeding success of species such as natterjack toads. And migratory fish, like Atlantic salmon, are unable to move upstream because of reduced river flows.

Drought in the following seven areas were officially announced today: East Anglia,- Hertfordshire and the whole of London,- Thames Valley,- Hampshire & the Isle of Wight.- Devon & Cornwall,- The West Midlands- Wessex (covering Dorset, Somerset, Wiltshire, and south Gloucestershire)

Helen Wakeham, director of water at the Environment Agency and chair of the National Drought Group, said: "The hot and dry weather means we are currently using water faster than nature can replenish it.

"A second consecutive summer drought is an exceptionally serious situation and one that will have long-lasting impacts on our environment, wildlife, and the economy.

"We want everyone to stay safe and hydrated during the hot weather but every drop we can save is a drop more for nature and agriculture."

Met Office chief meteorologist, Will Lang, said: "While there are indications of occasional unsettled spells during the first part of August, bringing the chance of rain to some locations, there is currently little sign of the widespread, sustained rainfall that would be needed to make a significant difference to the areas most affected by the dry weather."

The government is urging everyone to be sparing with their water use.

"With everyone’s help in using a little less water and following restrictions, our current reserves should be enough for the coming months until the next period of sustained rainfall.

"Small steps, such as turning off the taps when brushing teeth or shaving, taking a shorter shower or fixing a leaking toilet can really add up," a statement read.