Every Drop Counts – Come Rain or Shine

Save water this summer

A wet winter has enabled rivers to recover after last year’s hot, dry summer. But that doesn’t make it any less important to be careful with this vital resource.

We all still need to be careful with water to help safeguard supplies.

Water use is lowest in the winter and highest in the summer. As the days get warmer and demand increases, taking simple steps to use less water can make a big impact.  

Balancing water supplies throughout the year

Summer 2025 was drier than average, with 25% less rain than usual for the region and season. It was also hot, which meant we used more water as we watered gardens, took extra showers and filled paddling pools.

The dry weather and higher demand reduced combined storage in key reservoirs to around 50% in late summer 2025.

Our reservoirs returned to normal levels after the wettest Cornish winter since records began in 1836 (Devon’s winter was in the top 5 wettest on record). 

However, a changing climate, increasing demand and the need for more water to protect our natural environments poses big challenges as we move through the summer months.

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.