30/06/10
The first six months of 2010 have been the driest across the UK since 1929, the Met Office reports today. Latest rainfall data show why reservoir levels in western parts are unusually low.
In this particularly dry spell, water companies along with environment agencies monitor surface and groundwater resources with particular attention.
To ensure a secure supply of water in a range of scenarios, the companies prepare 25-year water resource management plans following consultation with customers, local organisations, consumer and environmental interests. The plans are approved by government before publication.
Companies also prepare drought plans in partnership with the agencies. These plans cover the sequence of actions the companies will take to secure supplies when long periods of low rainfall reduce the volume of water available for use. In some situations, drought plans require temporary restrictions on non-essential uses of water.
Driest start for more than 80 years
Met Office news
Contact: Water UK Communication
