Drought declared in parts of Sussex
It's after Ardingly Reservoir's water levels dropped to just 27.6% since June
A drought's been declared in parts of Sussex over dropping water levels at Ardingly Reservoir.
South East Water's now urging people in Haywards Heath and Eastbourne to be careful with their water usage.
It's as the reservoir's levels have dropped rapidly since June, now standing at 27.6% total capacity.
We're being encouraged to help save water, by taking shorter showers, using water from the kitchen to water plants, and fixing leaky toilets.
Moving to drought status means the Environment Agency and water companies will continue implementing the steps of their pre-agreed drought plans to manage the impacts.
Richard O'Callaghan, Area Environment Manager at the Environment Agency said:
“Autumn and winter may feel like there is an excess of water at hand, but the climate is changing, and we must be sensible about water use all the time, not just some of the time. A few bursts of recent rainfall do not undo several dry months of cumulative impact.
“It will take sustained rainfall to address prolonged dry weather and replenish reservoirs and rivers. Everyone can help speed that up by being sensible with their water use.”