Defra is holding a drought summit today as large areas of the UK face the prospect of drought this year. According to Defra, the aim of the Summit is to discuss the latest  drought predictions, listen to what measures are already being implemented to tackle drought, and decide upon actions that need to be taken to reduce its impact in the future. Those attending will include representatives from water companies, the Environment Agency, Natural England, British Waterways, Met Office, representatives from the Agricultural sector and Environmental NGOs.

Since June 2011, drought has affected Lincolnshire, Cambridgeshire, parts of Bedfordshire and Northamptonshire, and west Norfolk. Following a dry winter, much of South East England is at high risk of drought.

The Environment Agency’s Drought Prospects for winter 2011/2012 report (available on the Environment Agency website together with a map showing drought risk areas) makes recommendations to water companies and other water users, such as farmers, on measures they can take to minimise the impacts of a longer term drought. er 2011)

The Environment Agency will reassess the likelihood of a prolonged drought, along with any further recommendations and report in early 2012.

Water companies that are facing an increase risk of drought are taking the following actions:

• Anglian Water have been issued with two drought permits to refill two of its reservoirs.
• Southern Water has applied for a drought permit for Bewl reservoir.

Defra is also working with the agricultural and food sectors to help them adapt to climate change, improve irrigation technology, develop more water efficient crops, develop markets for drought-affected produce.

The current water situation in England is available on the Environment Agency’s website, with both the monthly water situation and latest weekly rainfall and river flows.