Natural Resources Wales (NRW) has submitted an application to the Welsh Government seeking a Drought Order for the River Severn as prolonged heatwaves and arid conditions continue to exert significant pressure on Welsh waterways.
Should the Welsh Government grant approval, the order would lower the statutory minimum flow requirements for the River Severn to preserve water resources and safeguard both the natural environment and public water supplies.
The measure would also initiate an opening five per cent reduction in water extraction for Hafren Dyfrdwy, the regional water utility.
Huwel Manley, NRW’s Head of Operations, stated that consecutive intense heatwaves and exceptionally dry weather have made the environmental impact unmistakably apparent. He explained that this drought order would represent the most recent in a series of interventions required to maintain river health and sustain the ecosystems dependent upon them. Manley emphasised that water represents an invaluable commodity during such periods, and any unnecessary waste reduces the volume available for rivers and wildlife when conditions are most challenging. The organisation is consequently urging individuals to adhere to water company guidance and explore methods to improve water efficiency to help preserve supply levels for both communities and the natural world.
The Environment Agency has simultaneously submitted a corresponding drought order application for the English portion of the River Severn.
Storage reservoirs that feed the Severn system, including Llyn Clywedog and Lake Vyrnwy, are experiencing sharp declines in water levels.
The proposed drought orders intend to prolong the duration of available water supplies, seeking to prevent abrupt fluctuations in river flow that could harm aquatic ecosystems and endanger migratory fish species.
If sanctioned, the orders could remain effective for as long as six months, with the expectation that environmental conditions and reservoir levels will recover once seasonal rainfall patterns return to normal.
The entirety of Wales continues to experience drought conditions following the driest July in 190 years, with only seven per cent of anticipated rainfall recorded by August 16.
Numerous rivers and groundwater reserves have descended to unprecedented minimum levels.
NRW maintains its response to environmental emergencies associated with the extended dry spell, encompassing desiccated river channels, fish requiring assistance, algal proliferation, and vegetation fires.
Inspectors are additionally performing regulatory assessments to confirm that holders of abstraction licences adhere to their authorised volumes.
Residents are being urged to employ water prudently to assist in environmental protection.
Guidance regarding water conservation methods is accessible through the Let’s Save Water initiative, supported by regulatory bodies and water companies.
NRW additionally anticipates that water companies will implement their drought contingency strategies and deploy Temporary Use Bans appropriately to protect resources for both the public and the environment.