Natural Resources Wales has officially declared a drought in North Wales and the Upper Severn area following record-dry conditions [1].
The declaration signals a critical drop in water availability that threatens local ecosystems, agriculture, and public water supplies. This is one of the first official drought declarations in the UK, affecting two areas in Wales and one area in England [2].
Environmental officials identified several regions under the drought status, including North Gwynedd, Ynys Môn, South Gwynedd, the Dee in Wales, Clwyd, and the Upper Severn catchment [1]. The agency said a combination of prolonged heat since May and a series of wildfires contributed to the crisis. Dwindling river levels further prompted the decision to move to a formal drought status [1].
Weather data indicates a severe lack of precipitation in the region. Rainfall in North Wales this month has been less than two percent of the expected total [3]. This deficit has left the landscape vulnerable as the region continues to face high temperatures.
Natural Resources Wales is monitoring the situation closely as more hot weather is expected in the coming week [1]. The agency said it is coordinating with water companies to manage remaining reserves and mitigate the impact of the dry spell on the environment and the economy.
Local authorities said the record-dry conditions are a result of an extended period of heat that began in the spring. The combination of low rainfall and high evaporation rates has depleted soil moisture, and lowered the water table across the affected catchments [1].
“Rainfall in North Wales this month has been less than 2% of the expected total”
The official drought declaration allows Natural Resources Wales to implement emergency water management protocols. By formally recognizing the drought, the agency can regulate water abstraction from rivers and aquifers to prevent total depletion, which is essential for protecting biodiversity and ensuring that urban centers maintain basic water services during an unprecedented dry spell.
