Overview

• England is experiencing its driest start to spring since 1956, with rainfall in March and April well below long-term averages.
• Reservoirs in the North West, including Wayoh, Haweswater, and Thirlmere, have seen significant declines, with levels as low as 59%, down from 95% last year.
• The Environment Agency has issued warnings of potential summer droughts and possible hosepipe bans if dry conditions persist.
• Water companies, including United Utilities, are urging residents to conserve water while investing in leak reduction and infrastructure upgrades to safeguard supplies.
• Early irrigation by farmers and dry vegetation have exacerbated environmental impacts, contributing to wildfires in Cumbria, Derbyshire, and Dorset.