Thousands of fish have died after a stretch of the Afon Dulas in Conwy dried up completely during a heatwave. Local residents and anglers attempted to rescue fish trapped in shrinking pools, but many could not be saved.
River Dries Up at Llanddulas Beach
The 12km river originates on Moelfre Uchaf and flows north through Llanddulas village, running alongside its beach before reaching Liverpool Bay. During the June 2026 heatwave, water levels dropped dangerously low, prompting a rescue operation. Now, amid the year's third heatwave, parts of the river have completely dried out.
Some residents suspect interference upstream and point to damage from a severe winter storm. A wildlife enthusiast led rescue efforts, using nets, sieves, and buckets to gather trout fry and young eels for transfer upstream. She said: "The water was so shallow I was literally able to rescue a fish in the scoop part of my dog's ball launcher. All of the trapped fish have died and there are now thousands of fish and fish fry carcasses drying out in the heat."
NRW Response and Limitations
Natural Resources Wales (NRW) was notified but said it could not take action. A spokesperson stated: "We have received reports of low flows on the Afon Dulas and understand public concern. Lack of rainfall has led to low river levels and isolated pools, creating conditions that can cause stress and mortality among fish populations. Attempting to relocate fish during low flows and high temperatures can cause further harm."
NRW noted that it recently audited impoundments and abstractions in the catchment and found none that would explain the low flows. However, small abstractions under 20 cubic metres per day are exempt from licensing and may cumulatively affect river levels during dry periods.
Residents Point to Storm Damage and Coastal Defences
A distinctive timber footbridge on Llanddulas beach, part of the Wales Coast Path, usually sees knee-deep flowing water. One resident recalled: "40 years ago I stepped off a rock into that river and went straight under. Sad to see it dry, we used to fish in there."
Fish that were saved were moved to pools under a six-pier railway viaduct and a bridge supporting the A55 Expressway. The remainder were left to die in sun-warmed pools. One hypothesis suggests the river's course was modified by stones and shingle deposited inland during a storm in winter 2023-24. Coastal defences at Llanddulas confine the river along the beach, and the riverbed is now strewn with pebbles residents believe came from the beach.
Call for Action and Future Concerns
The rescue organiser believes NRW must collaborate with Conwy Council to find solutions. She warned that with rising temperatures, rivers running dry are likely to become more common. She added: "The first thing people say is you need to dredge the river. There are very few instances where that would make a difference – I think this is one of them. If this is to continue and NRW cannot determine a source, we should question whether this continues to be managed as a main river."
NRW encourages reporting environmental concerns via its online form or incident hotline on 03000 65 3000.
