An official drought covering the whole of Wales has been declared – the first for 16 years – even though some citizens have been dealing with floods this week and more heavy rain is predicted over the coming days.
Natural Resources Wales (NRW) confirmed on Thursday that a drought was affecting the whole of the country after just 56.7% of its expected rainfall fell between March and August – the third-driest six-month period since records began in 1865.
The south of Wales and parts of mid-Wales were already officially in drought but NRW said that despite persistent rainfall in recent days, the status for other parts of the country was being moved from “prolonged dry weather” to drought. It added that the situation showed the “pressing need to prepare and adapt to the environmental and wider impacts of climate change”.”
Natalie Hall, sustainable water manager at NRW, said: “After a dry spring and summer, and the impact very little rain over a sustained period have had on our natural environment, we have taken the decision to move the whole of Wales into drought status.
“Rainfall experienced across the country over recent weeks has not been anywhere near enough to replenish rivers, groundwater or reservoirs to normal levels. We will need to see sustained or above average rainfall over the coming weeks and months to see any tangible difference. If we don’t see that rainfall, we can expect many areas to remain in drought.
“While essential water supplies remain safe, the public and businesses right across Wales areas are being urged to use water wisely and manage this precious resource at this time.”
NRW said water levels in rivers including the Wye, Usk, Dee and Upper Severn remained very low, creating concern about fish and other wildlife. Peatland, wetlands and mature forests were coping well, it added.
Hall continued: “Each drought is different in its extent, severity and impact. As such, it is difficult to predict when we will see the environment, our water supplies and the agricultural sector move into recovery.
“The impact of climate change and the likelihood of more frequent and more severe weather presents an ever-greater challenge for every part of society.”
The Met Office has confirmed that this summer has been the eighth warmest for Wales since 1884. The levels of most reservoirs are lower than usual, though a hosepipe ban is currently only in force in Pembrokeshire and parts of Carmarthenshire.
Public Health Wales said people should continue to drink water as usual and carry on washing, though it suggested showers rather than baths to save water.
