Every Drop Counts – Come Rain or Shine

Every drop counts this summer

Following the Environment Agency's (EA) decision to declare more than 70% of England in drought, it’s important everyone uses water wisely to protect essential supplies.

With less rainfall replenishing rivers, reservoirs and groundwater sources, and demand rising during hotter weather, water resources are coming under increasing pressure across the region.

The drought declaration reflects the exceptionally warm and dry conditions affecting much of the country. According to the Met Office, the UK has already experienced three heatwaves this year, with the period from March to July among the driest on record.

As the dry weather continues, taking simple steps to use less water can make a big difference.

Balancing water supplies throughout the year

After a summer already marked by multiple heatwaves, record breaking temperatures and low rainfall, July saw further records being broken. July 2026 was the driest, warmest, and sunniest month ever recorded in Southern England in a record that dates to 1836.

This combination of exceptionally dry and warm conditions puts a lot of pressure on water resources. River levels are very low, meaning that we have to use more of the water stored in our reservoirs, with exceptionally high demand for water meaning that we must take a lot from them.

These conditions, following the wettest Cornish winter on record, illustrate the challenges of a changing climate, increasing demand and the need for more water to protect our natural environments.

Visiting the South West  

Demand for water goes up when there are more visitors. To ensure there is enough to go round, please only use what you need. Find out what you can do to reduce water use on your visit.