Future Water’s Response to England’s Escalating Drought

England’s Water Shortage Now a “Nationally Significant Incident”

At Future Water, we are following the National Drought Group’s latest update with concern, England’s ongoing water shortage has now been declared a nationally significant incident. This comes after the driest six-month period to July since 1976, with five regions officially in drought and six more in prolonged dry weather.

Average reservoir levels have dropped to 67.7% (well below the seasonal norm of 80.5%) and river flows are worryingly low, with some rivers at record-breaking lows for July. The impacts are being felt across our sector, from reduced crop yields and pressure on food production, to increased risk for wildlife, habitats, and navigation waterways.

It’s encouraging to see water companies, farmers, regulators, and communities stepping up, with notable leakage reductions, smart meter rollouts, and public water-saving efforts already making a difference. Yorkshire Water customers, for example, have cut demand by 10%, saving the equivalent of 32 Olympic-sized pools daily.

But this situation underlines the urgent need for sustained innovation, investment, and collaboration, values that are at the heart of Future Water’s mission. Whether it’s through new infrastructure, advanced leakage detection, or behaviour change campaigns, our industry has a vital role to play in building resilience.

Share best practice on leakage reduction and water efficiency

Support innovation that strengthens drought resilience

Encourage employees, partners, and customers to adopt water-saving habits

Our community’s collective expertise is essential in meeting the challenges ahead and safeguarding water for people, the environment, and the economy.