Natural Resources Wales (NRW) has triggered a drought status in north Wales and the Upper Severn, prompting an urgent appeal for the public to conserve water.
Drought declaration and dry weather
NRW confirmed on Thursday that drought status had been declared in the two areas, which have received less than 2% of expected rainfall for the month so far. The prolonged dry weather status has also been extended across the remainder of south-west Wales, meaning every part of Wales is now experiencing either prolonged dry weather or drought conditions.
Water-saving tips
Let's Save Water has suggested simple ways to cut down on usage, including taking four-minute showers, turning off taps while brushing teeth, using eco-mode on dishwashers, fixing dripping taps, reusing kitchen water, ensuring toilets aren't leaking, getting a smart meter, running full washing machine loads, washing cars with a sponge instead of a hosepipe, and buying a water butt for plants.
Hosepipe ban and water demand
A hosepipe ban was introduced on July 19 in parts of south-west Wales, covering mid and south Ceredigion, parts of north Pembrokeshire, and north Carmarthenshire. The temporary use ban, affecting around 33,000 properties, was implemented due to exceptionally high demand. Welsh Water reported it is putting about 20% more drinking water into supply than usual for this time of year.
Wildfire risk
NRW has also urged the public to take extra care to prevent wildfires, as dry conditions have significantly increased wildfire risk. North Wales has seen several major wildfires, and a 5km wildfire in Blaenavon has been burning for days. Anyone spotting a wildfire should move to a safe location and call 999. Environmental incidents can be reported to NRW's 24-hour hotline on 0300 065 3000.
