Drought officially declared in Northamptonshire after driest July in 190 years
Northamptonshire has officially moved into drought status as exceptionally dry conditions continue across the country and a hosepipe ban remains in force.
The Environment Agency announced that Lincolnshire and Northamptonshire has become one of the latest areas to enter drought, with almost three-quarters of England now affected.
The announcement comes as Anglian Water customers are already subject to a hosepipe ban, with the company among eight water suppliers to have introduced restrictions as pressure on supplies increases. More than 27 million customers nationally are now affected by temporary use bans.
Conditions have worsened following the driest July in 190 years and a particularly dry start to August, when just five per cent of expected rainfall had fallen by the time of the announcement.
Reservoir levels across England have fallen to 69 per cent, while river flows and groundwater levels continue to decline. The continued hot and dry weather is also increasing the risk of wildfires. Tony Grayling, strategic drought lead at the Environment Agency, said: “Drought conditions are worsening and will continue to do so until we see significant and sustained rainfall.
“We want everyone to stay safe and hydrated over the summer, but we need everyone’s help in using a little less water to make sure our current water reserves last.”
Residents are being encouraged to reduce their water consumption where possible, including turning off taps while brushing their teeth and fixing leaking toilets.
Hosepipes are restricted under temporary use bans, although watering cans and buckets can still be used.