Water storage across Severn Trent's reservoir network has slumped to its lowest level since November 2025, according to latest figures from the company. Current reserves total 176,850 million litres – just 71.4 per cent of the total capacity of 247,708 million litres. That marks a three percentage point drop compared with the previous week, underscoring how rapidly the dry conditions are affecting supplies.
Last week, Birmingham and the wider West Midlands were formally declared to be in drought after an extended period of record-low rainfall and exceptionally high temperatures. The declaration places the region alongside half of England in drought status, and the Environment Agency has started regulating how much water can be drawn from rivers and groundwater.
Reservoir levels and capacity
The latest drop extends a downward trend that has seen Severn Trent's reservoirs lose ground for several consecutive weeks. At 176,850 million litres, the current stock is 70,858 million litres below the network's maximum capacity of 247,708 million litres.
Severn Trent has not yet introduced a hosepipe ban, but the company has been repeatedly warning customers to use water mindfully. In recent alerts, it specifically asked people to use watering cans rather than hosepipes where possible – a simple switch that can make a meaningful difference during a prolonged dry spell.
Drought and water restrictions across England
The situation in Birmingham is part of a wider national picture. Half of England is now officially in drought, and the Environment Agency has introduced controls on water abstraction from rivers and groundwater sources. These measures are designed to protect public water supplies while safeguarding the environment during an exceptionally dry summer.
Other parts of England have already brought in hosepipe bans after the UK experienced three heatwaves so far this summer. The bans are being enforced to ease pressure on treatment works and preserve water for essential uses.
July rainfall was particularly poor, with the UK receiving only seven per cent of the expected monthly rainfall. Southern England fared even worse, seeing just one per cent – a staggering shortfall that has left rivers and groundwater sources under severe strain.
Birmingham's water supply
Birmingham gets its tap water from the Elan Valley in Mid Wales. The city depends on this source entirely, meaning the ongoing drought has a direct impact on the water available to homes and businesses across the region.
The situation remains critical, and Severn Trent is monitoring reservoir levels closely to decide whether further action, including a possible hosepipe ban, may be needed.
Wildfires and fire service response
The hot, dry conditions are also increasing the risk of wildfires. As moisture evaporates from soils and vegetation, grass and heathland become highly flammable, and West Midlands Fire Service has seen an increase in callouts to grass fires over the last few weeks.
Among the most serious recent incidents:
- A large fire at Barr Beacon nature reserve in Birmingham, with eight fire crews on scene and police blocking roads.
- A blaze spreading in Kingfisher Park, Hay Mills, reported this afternoon.
- Earlier damage to Perry Halls playing fields in Perry Barr, where a meadow fire caused extensive harm.
Environment Agency warning
Helen Wakeham, director of water at the Agency and chair of the National Drought Group, emphasised the seriousness of the situation. “The hot and dry weather means we are using water faster than nature can replenish it,” she said.
“A second consecutive summer drought is an exceptionally serious situation and one that will have long-lasting impacts on our environment, wildlife and the economy. We want everyone to stay safe and hydrated during the hot weather but every drop we can save is a drop more for nature and agriculture.”
Severn Trent has reiterated its plea for customers to fix leaks, take shorter showers, and avoid unnecessary outdoor water use, stressing that immediate savings are crucial to prevent more stringent restrictions later in the summer.
