**Wales Edges Towards Possible Drought Declaration Amid Plummeting Water Levels**
Water levels in rivers and reservoirs across Wales have dropped noticeably following several weeks of exceptionally dry weather, sparking concern among officials and the public alike. Authorities are now contemplating more stringent advice on water usage, with the possibility of a formal drought declaration being raised for parts of the country.
On Thursday, May 22, a coalition known as the Welsh Government’s drought liaison group will convene to review the latest environmental data. This group, comprising representatives from Natural Resources Wales, Welsh Water, the Met Office, and various other stakeholders, meets periodically when water shortages loom. The purpose of their upcoming meeting is to assess whether any areas of Wales—or possibly the entire nation—should shift from the regular status to a “prolonged dry weather” designation, which serves as a preliminary step towards officially declaring a drought.
According to recent reports, river flows are at concerning lows, particularly in northern and mid Wales. Notably, both the River Dee and the River Yscir are currently experiencing their driest conditions since records began in the 1970s. This stark reduction in water levels is not only raising red flags among environmental experts but also has wider implications for those who depend on these water sources for farm irrigation, manufacturing, and, most importantly, day-to-day living.
Data from Natural Resources Wales underscores the severity of the situation. As of early May, water storage across the country is below seasonal expectations. South east Wales’ reservoirs are currently only 79% full. In comparison, south west Wales enjoys slightly higher levels at 89%, with the north east and north west faring best at 90% and 92% respectively. Still, these figures are uncharacteristically low for this time of year and could fall further should the dry spell continue.
Commentary from Welsh Water officials has reinforced the delicate position in which the country now finds itself. Ian Christie, the company’s managing director for water, asset planning, and capital delivery, recently issued a public appeal for sensible water use, stopping short of calling for outright restrictions but encouraging everyone to avoid unnecessary wastage. In his words, “We’re not asking people not to use their water, we’re just asking them to use the water they need but avoid wasting it.”
The task before water managers is not straightforward. Around 95% of Welsh Water’s supply comes from surface water sources, such as reservoirs and rivers. This high dependence makes the region particularly vulnerable to fluctuations in rainfall patterns and exposes communities to heightened risk during prolonged dry periods.
The possibility of more severe restrictions or an official drought announcement is not taken lightly. Should Thursday’s drought liaison group meeting find current measures inadequate, Wales could see additional guidance issued or even the formal recognition of a drought in certain areas. This would trigger a range of actions, potentially including tighter controls on water use, expanded public information campaigns, and more comprehensive efforts to manage the supply.
While communities keep a careful eye on the forecasts hoping for rain, businesses, farmers, and households are being reminded of the importance of preparedness. Speaking to the wider significance of water stewardship, environmental observers note that incidents like these underscore the ongoing effects of climate change and the growing necessity for careful water resource planning.
The situation remains fluid, with authorities poised to respond based on both updated scientific assessments and the evolving weather conditions. As Wales approaches a critical juncture, residents are urged to heed official advice on water efficiency to help safeguard supplies for everyone throughout the coming months.
Further announcements are expected following the drought liaison group’s review, as the nation waits to see whether this exceptionally dry start to the summer will bring about the declaration of Wales’ latest drought.