South West given drought status

The Environment Agency has moved the South West to environmental drought status after months of low rainfall.

Though public water supplies are currently fine and there is no hose pipe ban, the low levels of rain are causing problems for wildlife across the region.

Strategic Drought Manager for the Environment Agency in the South West Ben Johnstone says:

“The whole of the South West has moved into environmental drought status, reflecting the impact that this extended dry period is having on the environment and we are asking everyone to use water wisely.

“The amount of water we all use has a direct effect on the amount of water available in rivers and for wildlife.”

River flow will be reduced and sections of streams and wetlands could dry out, leading the Agency to ask people to contact them if they see fish or wildlife in distress.