Extended drought status declared across all of Wales
Natural Resources Wales says the drought declaration is now extended to cover the entire country, as Wales experiences near-record dry conditions
Natural Resources Wales (NRW) has announced that the drought declaration is now extended to cover the entire country, as Wales experiences near-record dry conditions.
The announcement made on 30th July follows last week's declaration where north Wales and Upper Severn first entered into drought status. This move was due to environmental thresholds being met as a result of only 8% of the average July rainfall being received.
There is concern that July may become the driest month on record in Wales.
The drought conditions have led to notably low river levels across the country, with affected rivers including the Clwyd, Dyfi, Alyn, Clywedog, Conwy, Cleddau, Cothi, Teifi, Wye, and Usk.
Reports are mounting of drying riverbeds, fish distress, algal blooms, and threats to farming such as crop growth and livestock water availability.
NRW’s environmental teams are actively responding to wildfire risks, while regulation releases and reservoir management are in place to assist river ecosystems and maintain necessary abstraction levels.
Rhian Thomas, Sustainable Water and Nature Manager at NRW, said:
“The intensity of the heat and the exceptional lack of rainfall means this is a rapidly changing picture in Wales. Our teams are closely monitoring forecasts and river flows and responding to increasing environmental concerns and incidents across Wales.
“The toll on the environment, our land and agriculture is clear to see, with many of our teams still dealing with the aftermath of extensive wildfires which have devastated forestry, grassland and special habitats.
“With no strong indications for notable rainfall in the forecasts, and risks of further heatwaves over the summer, it’s more important than ever that we all use water wisely. Every drop we waste is less water for our rivers and wildlife when they need it the most.”
NRW says it continues to collaborate with water companies, Welsh Government, and the Environment Agency, 'maintaining close oversight of river systems including cross-border rivers Wye, Severn, and Dee'.
The public is urged to remain vigilant against wildfires and report environmental concerns to NRW’s hotline on 0300 065 3000.