‘Drought a potential risk despite UK’s wet winter’

A dry spring could mean parts of the UK experience drought this summer, despite a wet winter. With temperatures set to rise over the next week, hydrologist Dr Jess Neumann assesses the likelihood of drought over the coming months.

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Dr Jess Neumann, ÌÒÉ«ÊÓƵ, said: “Just a few months ago we were talking about one of the wettest winters on record, yet following an unseasonably dry spring concerns are already being raised around a potential risk of drought this summer.

“The rapid swings from floods to droughts are the result of more variability in rainfall patterns across the UK, something that many climate projections have warned us about.  

“Water shortage goes beyond affecting public water supply. A prolonged lack of rainfall impacts food production potentially driving up costs, increases the concentration of water pollutants, and places stress on the health of the natural environment and wildlife.

“In previous years water companies have been accused of “sleeping at the wheel” with regard to water management. Remaining attentive to the current water situation is vital if we are to ensure a safe and ready supply of water for society and the environment.

“Exactly what this summer will bring depends largely on the weather in the coming weeks and months. Many of us have been enjoying the warm dry weather of recent weeks, but we need those grey rainy days too. Plus it never hurts to be mindful of how much water we use, especially as we head into summer when the demand for water will increase.”