Drought in Yorkshire after one of driest springs ever

Yorkshire has officially entered a state of drought due to critically low river flows and groundwater levels, exacerbated by one of the driest springs ever recorded, the Environment Agency has announced.

- SIAN ELVIN REBECCA SPEARE-COLE

Yesterday’s announcement escalates the region’s status from “prolonged dry weather” to “drought”. This follows a similar declaration for the North West in late May, encompassing areas such as Greater Manchester, Merseyside, Cheshire, Cumbria and Lancashire.

The UK experienced its hottest spring on record, coupled with the driest conditions in decades, placing immense strain on crops and natural habitats. Millions of households have been warned to prepare for potential water restrictions this summer.

Claire Barrow, Yorkshire environment, planning and engagement manager at the Environment Agency, said: “Our climate is changing, and we had 22 days of almost no recorded rainfall in May. While we have had some rain at the start of June, it has not been enough to reverse the impacts of the prolonged dry weather.

“We are working with Yorkshire Water to make sure they enact their drought plans. We also encourage people to be aware of the environmental impacts of droughts as we enter the summer period and note the small steps we can all take to save water.”