Drought has been declared across Yorkshire after months of unusually dry weather, the Environment Agency (EA) announced today. This decision was triggered by low water levels in reservoirs and rivers, despite some recent rainfall in parts of the region.
Yorkshire officially entered drought status on Friday, having previously been classified as experiencing prolonged dry weather. The EA stated that Yorkshire experienced its fifth driest period on record between April and September.
Andy Shaw, head of water production, treatment and energy at Yorkshire Water, said the EA's decision reflects the dry conditions but "does not mean water restrictions are currently needed." Yorkshire Water is not planning to introduce water restrictions for customers at this stage.
Vicki Townend, an EA manager, noted that the ongoing lack of rainfall means river flows and groundwater levels are very low, reaching the trigger for a drought declaration. She added that even a few weeks of rain would not quickly reverse the effects of the dry spring and summer. The EA will continue to monitor the situation and implement its Yorkshire Drought Plan.
Water Minister Emma Hardy stated that recent rainfall is not yet enough to replenish water used over spring and summer, highlighting the seriousness of the situation. She also mentioned that long-term resilience against a changing climate is a government priority.