Drought declared for N. Wales despite long-awaited rain

A “DROUGHT” has been declared for North Wales following the hot summer.

- Steve Bagnall

Natural Resources Wales has moved the region into drought status amid reports of streams drying up, “fish in distress” and other environmental impacts.

NRW released a statement which said: “While many parts of Wales have received some welcome rainfall this week, the extended hot and dry weather this spring/summer is continuing to impact Wales's rivers, groundwaters, land and wildlife.

“Natural Resources Wales (NRW) has announced today (Friday) that despite the change in weather, trigger levels have been met to move North Wales into drought status, closely following south east Wales, which declared drought earlier this month. South west Wales has benefitted from this week's rainfall and will remain at prolonged dry weather status while being closely monitored.

“The decision was shared with a meeting of the Welsh Government’s Drought Liaison Group where the latest hydrological data and the wider implications of low river flows and groundwater levels was considered.

“Concerns were shared about the impacts witnessed by our teams on the ground, as well as members of the public via NRW’s incident hotline.

“In North Wales, more reports are being received about streams drying up and fish found in distress. A significant wildfire impacted the Newborough National Nature reserve over the bank holiday weekend, causing a temporary closure to the site.”