Kielder Reservoir 'below average' water levels as advice issued
Last updated 28th Sep 2026
Northumbrian Water is urging people to keep saving water despite recent rain, as reservoirs across the region - including Kielder - remain below average levels.
People are being asked to make simple changes, including only putting the washing machine or dishwasher on when it’s full, and turning off the tap while brushing their teeth.
The company says it could take many months of wetter-than-average weather for rivers, reservoirs and groundwater sources to fully recover.
Other advice includes taking shorter showers, fixing dripping taps and leaking toilets, and reusing water where possible — for example, using water from washing fruit and vegetables on plants and gardens.
While recent rain has been welcome, temperatures are expected to remain higher than usual for this time of year, reaching 21°C in parts of the region this week, meaning demand for water is likely to remain higher.
Reservoir levels remain below average, with Kielder and other reservoirs in Northumberland currently at around three-quarters full. Levels are also low in Weardale and Teesdale.
The Environment Agency has said almost three-quarters of England remains in drought, while the North East is still classed as experiencing prolonged dry weather.
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Northumbrian Water says the region would need around 120% of its typical rainfall over the seven months to April 2027 for all areas to officially move out of drought conditions.
Kieran Ingram, Water Director, said: "The recent rain has helped a little, but it has been significant enough.
"Our reservoirs remain below normal levels, and it will take many months of wetter-than-average weather for rivers, reservoirs and groundwater sources to fully recover.
"That's why we're asking customers to keep up the fantastic water-saving habits they've developed over recent months.
"Every drop saved this year puts us in a better position for next year. The water we save today helps strengthen supplies for the future and supports the long-term health of our environment."
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