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England declares drought following driest spring since 1893

The Environment Agency has stepped up inspections, with water firms racing to fix leaks under drought plans

A woman walks along a dry section of the bed of the Baitings reservoir after a prolonged period without rain, which resulted in water levels dropping, near Ripponden, Britain, May 13, 2025. REUTERS/Phil Noble/ File Photo
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Overview

  • Reservoir levels have fallen to 77% of capacity, well below the 93% average for late May.
  • Drought has been declared in north-west England, and the North East, Yorkshire, and the East and West Midlands face persistent dry weather.
  • The National Drought Group will meet monthly through the summer to monitor conditions and coordinate potential restrictions.
  • The Environment Agency is conducting more compliance checks on water-intensive businesses and intensifying river and groundwater monitoring.
  • Water companies are under pressure to accelerate leak repairs and conserve supplies, with Youlgrave Waterworks issuing the season’s first hosepipe ban.