The UK is facing a deepening water crisis following the 6th driest spring since records began in 1836.
With rainfall nearly 40% below the long-term average, conditions are rapidly deteriorating — and the warning signs are becoming impossible to ignore.
Key climate and water updates:
- England recorded its warmest June ever, with the UK seeing its second warmest since 1884 (Met Office).
- May 2025 brought just 57% of normal rainfall, and forecasts suggest a hot, dry summer ahead.
- Yorkshire Water is the first region to declare a Temporary Use Ban (TUB), effective from 11th July 2025.
- South East Water (18th July 2025) and Thames Water (22nd July 2025) have also declared TUBs effective as per dates in brackets.
- Five water regions – including United Utilities, Welsh Water, Southern Water, Anglian Water, and Wessex Water – have now declared Level 1 Drought.
- Rainfall across much of England has been ‘exceptionally low’ for three consecutive months, the lowest classification by the Environment Agency.
- Some rivers are experiencing levels as low as previous major drought years, with reservoirs under growing pressure.
The Environment Agency and water companies have begun activating drought response protocols: heightened focus on repairing leaks, launching public awareness campaigns, and applying for drought permits.
Why this matters for your business?
The risk of summer drought in England is now moderate to high, and action is needed. With no new reservoirs built in over 30 years, the UK’s infrastructure is struggling to cope with rising demand and climate volatility.
Now is the time to take a strategic approach to water management:
- Audit your current water use
- Identify and fix leaks
- Upgrade to water-efficient systems
- Embed long-term water resilience into your sustainability plan
Water is no longer just a utility — it’s a business-critical resource.
Need help preparing for restrictions or improving your water resilience strategy? Our experts are here to support you.
