Severn Trent Water has applied for a drought order for the River Severn, citing exceptional concern about the river's low levels after months of below-average rainfall. The company says the move is necessary to protect water supplies and the environment.
Exceptional low levels trigger drought order application
The application, submitted to the Environment Agency, seeks permission to reduce the amount of water the company is required to release from the river into the Bristol Channel. This would allow more water to remain in the river upstream, helping to maintain flows and protect wildlife habitats.
According to Severn Trent Water, the River Severn has experienced its driest 18-month period since records began in the 1850s. The company said the river's flow is currently at exceptionally low levels, with some areas seeing less than 20% of the typical flow for this time of year.
Impact on water supplies and wildlife
The drought order, if granted, would apply to the River Severn catchment area, which supplies water to millions of homes and businesses across the Midlands and South West. The company stressed that the move is a precautionary measure to ensure water supplies can be maintained through the rest of the summer and into autumn.
Severn Trent Water's director of water, Liv Garfield, said: "We are seeing exceptional conditions on the River Severn, and we need to take action now to protect the river and the water supplies that depend on it. This drought order is a responsible step to ensure we can continue to provide water to our customers while also protecting the environment."
Environment Agency to assess the application
The Environment Agency will now assess the application, considering the impact on the river's ecology, water users, and other stakeholders. A public consultation will be held before a decision is made.
Environmental groups have expressed concern about the impact of the drought on the River Severn's wildlife, including fish populations and aquatic plants. The river is a vital habitat for species such as salmon, otters, and kingfishers.
The drought order application comes as much of England remains in drought status following the driest summer in 50 years. The government has urged water companies to take action to protect water resources and the environment.
