Severe drought declared in six southern English counties

The Environment Agency declared severe drought in parts of six southern English counties on October 15, after months of exceptionally dry conditions left reservoirs well below typical levels. The affected areas are in Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Somerset, East Sussex and West Sussex. The declaration followed a meeting of the National Drought Group, which assessed water availability and conditions across England. Officials said the South East and South West had their driest April-to-September period in more than a century. The drought designation means water shortages are affecting daily life and the environment in significant ways, with potential lasting effects on communities, farming and nature. Two reservoirs were highlighted as particular concerns. Ardingly Reservoir in West Sussex, which serves about 95,000 properties, was reported at 19% capacity. Wimbleball Reservoir in Somerset, serving about 300,000 properties, was reported at 16%; the Environment Agency said it would normally expect reservoirs to be around 75% full at this time of year.