River flows and some groundwater levels in the Rivers Welland and Nene are “below normal” as a result of a dry spring.
River flows are declining in Lincolnshire and Northamptonshire as a result of the weather, which is having an adverse effect on both wildlife and river users.
Long-term arid conditions occur naturally. It takes place as a result of persistently low rainfall.
Actions are done to minimise environmental damage and the potential of additional deterioration after extended dry weather is proclaimed.
Groundwater levels, river flows, and soil conditions are just a few of the dry weather indicators that the Environment Agency has been keeping an eye on.
In order to ensure that the situation is managed effectively, it is collaborating with partners in the neighbourhood, such as internal drainage boards and water companies.
Owners of extraction licences in the impacted areas might get a notice to limit how much water they can take.
Depending on the situation locally, this might entail taking fewer doses or only abstracting at certain times.
For the Environment Agency in Lincolnshire and Northamptonshire, drought manager Claire Anderson said:
We are collaborating with water companies to understand any new concerns as we continue to use telemetry to monitor our main river, groundwater, and reservoir sites.
To manage water availability, we are also collaborating with farmers, companies, and other abstractors.
While maintaining our commitment to environmental protection, we must make sure they have access to the water they require to be resilient.
We are actively following the unfolding problem and regularly update www.gov.uk with news on the water situation.
The Environment Agency has been keeping an eye on hydrology and weather forecasts in the days leading up to this announcement.
To see if the effects of the dry weather on the ecology have been detected, field teams have been busy sampling.
Additionally, they have been meeting with water firms to discuss any necessary action.
We can all do our share to manage this valuable resource and utilise water properly.
Use a bucket to wash the car or water the plants if you need to use water in the garden.
Another simple step is to add a trigger to your hose.
Visit Waterwise for additional water-saving advice.
Please contact the Environment Agency at any time at 0800 80 70 60 if anyone notices any negative effects on the environment as a result of the dry weather, such as distressed fish.