England’s water crisis has deepened after a sixth consecutive month of below-average rainfall left the country’s reservoirs less than half full, according to new figures released by the government.
The Environment Agency reported that reservoir storage currently sits well below the 74.3% capacity typically expected for this time of year. Two facilities are particularly concerning: Ardingly in West Sussex stands at just 23% full, while Wimbleball in Somerset has dropped to 21% capacity.
September rainfall averaged only 65% of normal levels across England, according to GOV.UK, with the hardest-hit regions faring even worse. The east and south east recorded 52% and 57% of typical rainfall respectively, while central England saw 59% and the south west 69%.
Government warns water companies
Prime Minister Andy Burnham and Environment Secretary Dame Angela Eagle both addressed the crisis this week, with Eagle warning that “any further disruption to customer supplies would be entirely unacceptable.”
“Water companies must urgently take every possible step to conserve what remains, quickly fix leaks, reduce demand, and progress any contingency plans they need for the weeks ahead,” Eagle said in a statement.
The government is now holding weekly National Drought Group meetings to coordinate the response across the water sector. The Environment Agency has been fast-tracking drought permit applications that allow water companies to reduce the amount of water they release into local rivers, prioritising public supplies while attempting to balance environmental needs.
South East Water is applying for a non-essential use ban that would restrict activities such as garden watering and car washing to conserve household supplies and prevent more severe measures.
Long-term outlook remains uncertain
Despite cooler temperatures reducing demand, water consumption remains higher than expected for September. The Environment Agency has warned that England needs 120% of average rainfall over the next seven months for the entire country to emerge from drought by spring 2027.
Environment Agency Chief Executive Philip Duffy, who chaired this week’s National Drought Group meeting, stressed that “continued below average rainfall means we all need to use water wisely. The drought is far from over.”
The government announced measures to support farmers affected by the crisis, including £65 million in funding with up to £15 million dedicated to building on-farm reservoirs. Changes to abstraction licence rules now allow farmers to begin filling water storage reservoirs immediately rather than waiting until 1 November, though restrictions remain in place for salmon rivers and certain protected catchments.
Long-term plans include nine new major reservoirs by 2050, desalination plants, and multiple water transfer schemes. The government’s strengthened Water Bill, due to be detailed in coming months, aims to reform the industry to better serve the public interest.
What this means for Poles in the UK
If you live in areas covered by South East Water or other companies in southern and central England, prepare for possible restrictions on water use. A non-essential use ban would prohibit activities like watering gardens with a hosepipe, washing cars at home, and filling paddling pools.
Household tap water remains safe and supplies are currently protected, but the government and Environment Agency are urging all residents to reduce consumption. Simple steps include taking shorter showers, fixing dripping taps, and only running washing machines and dishwashers when full.
Check your water company’s website for updates on local restrictions and drought status in your area. If you rent, ensure your landlord addresses any leaks promptly. Businesses, particularly those with high water use, should review their consumption and prepare contingency plans.
The drought affects gardeners, allotment holders, and anyone planning outdoor activities. If restrictions are imposed, fines can apply for breaching them. Monitor official Environment Agency communications at gov.uk for the latest guidance on water use in your region.
