Severe drought has been officially declared across vast swathes of Southern England, as the Environment Agency warns that the region’s water resources are currently under “immense pressure.” The alert, which signifies the most critical stage of dry conditions, follows a record-breaking summer that saw an unprecedented surge in water demand.
The declaration spans parts of Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Somerset, and both East and West Sussex. Officials confirmed that these areas have endured their driest period between April and September in over a century. The lack of sustained rainfall has left local reservoirs critically depleted, triggering an urgent call to action for water utility providers and the public alike.
The decision was formalized following a meeting of the National Drought Group, which conducted a comprehensive review of water resources across the country. According to the Environment Agency, a “severe” drought status is reserved for situations that move beyond environmental stress and begin to cause widespread disruption to daily life, local economies, farming, and the natural ecosystem.
Environment Secretary Dame Angela Eagle addressed the gravity of the situation, noting that the country is grappling with conditions unseen for decades. “This level of drought is something we have not experienced for decades, so this government is stepping up our support and planning,” she stated. She emphasized that while the government is working with water companies to safeguard public supplies, citizens must also play their part. “I’d continue to urge everyone to think about how they can use water wisely over the coming weeks,” she added.
Looking to the future, the government has pointed toward its strengthened Water Bill as a roadmap for long-term reform. Dame Angela highlighted plans for a significant overhaul of the nation’s water infrastructure, including the construction of nine new major reservoirs aimed at securing supplies against the increasing volatility of the climate.
Philip Duffy, Chief Executive of the Environment Agency, underscored that while weather patterns remain outside human control, immediate operational action is non-negotiable. “Recovery depends on both rainfall and how much water we use,” Duffy said. “We expect [water companies] to follow their drought plans and take the steps needed to secure public water supplies.”
The Agency has stressed that the impact of the drought on wildlife and agricultural productivity could be long-lasting. By reducing personal water consumption, the public is being encouraged to keep more water in rivers and natural environments, providing a necessary buffer for nature to recover. With reservoirs strained and the climate changing, the declaration serves as a stark reminder of the mounting challenges facing England’s water security in the years ahead.
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