UK ministers warned reservoirs could run dry before Christmas, prompting emergency measures
Ministers have been secretly alerted that reservoirs in south-west England and Sussex could reach zero capacity within weeks, risking tap water shortages before Christmas.
Secret briefings have told UK ministers that reservoirs in the south-west and Sussex could be depleted to zero within weeks, threatening household water supplies before the holiday season. The government’s emergency committee, Cobra, is convening twice a week to discuss the water shortfall, with a “reasonable worst-case” scenario projecting complete depletion. Current levels at Wimbleball and Ardingly reservoirs sit at roughly 13-14 % and 17-19 % respectively, after a record-hot summer and only limited autumn rain.
Water utilities have sought permission for bans on non-essential consumption, and the Environment Secretary has directed the Environment Agency to prioritize public supply and cut river releases, sparking concerns for wildlife. Companies are accelerating leak repairs, moving millions of litres daily, and exploring alternative sources, while the Environment Agency warns that rainfall would need to be 120 % above average to restore normal levels. Drought declarations now cover all of England except the North West and North East.
Why it matters
Potential water shortages could affect millions of households and critical infrastructure during the holiday period.
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