The MetOffice indicate that the winter (Dec – Feb) was drier than normal, with rainfall being 76% of the long term average and temperature 1.3 C above the long term average. Rainfall in March and April has likewise been lower than normal. The Environment Agency indicate that April rainfall in England was 32% of the long term average resulting in increased soil moisture deficits to 100 mm and reducing river flows. The river flows were classed as below normal or lower at 80% of indicator sites. Reservoir levels in England reduced at two thirds of reservoirs or reservoir groups resulting in less than half being below normal or lower.
Natural Resources Wales (NRW) indicate that he April rainfall in Wales was 34% of the long term average resulting in increased soil moisture deficits and reducing river flows. Based on 30 indicator sites, NRW data indicates that 30% of river flows were below normal and 3% notably low. The cumulative reservoir storage was >90% (except Crai and Usk) all being within normal operating ranges.
The MetOffice suggests that things may not improve in the next 3 months. Water companies are warning of summer water shortages and encouraging customers and other water users to save water. With groundwater levels already lower than average, rainfall lower than average, soil moisture deficits greater than average, water usage by gardeners and farmers higher than average, the impact will not just be restricted to urban users but will also impact negatively on fly life and river fish populations.
Tight lines
Greg