The government has urged water companies to continue water efficiency measures until the drought in England is over. Public water supply was a key focus at the latest National Drought Group meeting, where water company chief executives provided updates on leakage reduction and autumn/winter preparedness.
Almost three-quarters of England remains in drought after an exceptionally dry spring and summer, coupled with a succession of heatwaves. Rivers, groundwaters, and reservoirs need to return to normal levels for the drought to end, with the latter two continuing to recede.
New research indicates that 120% of typical rainfall is required over the next seven months for all areas to be considered out of drought. The National Drought Group is now meeting weekly to monitor the situation and coordinate action.
While wetter weather is forecast for autumn, bringing some relief to most drought-hit areas, Devon & Cornwall and East Anglia are expected to remain in drought by April 2027 even in the most likely weather scenario. There is approximately a one-in-four chance that around half of the country will still be in drought next spring.
The Met Office is forecasting a return to drier conditions in the second half of September, particularly in the south. Overall, El Niño is set to increase the risk of a wet, stormy autumn for the UK.