Drought declared in North West: What does it mean for Nantwich?
The Environment Agency has declared a drought for the North West, following the driest spring in 69 years.
This is based on the fact river flows have been declining, and reservoir levels are lowering.
Although there has been rainfall recently, the Environment Agency has said it is 'not enough' to reverse the dry start to the year , especially given further warm weather is forecast.
Due to this, Cheshire, Merseyside, Greater Manchester, Cumbria, and Lancashire have been moved from 'prolonged dry weather' to 'drought' status by The Environment Agency.
What will happen in South Cheshire?
United Utilities manages water supply in the region.
Although a hosepipe ban has not yet been announced, the Environment Agency has said they could follow soon. It is the responsibility of the water companies to introduce the bans.
In any case, United Utilities will start sharing advice on how to reduce water usage. This could include simple measures such as collecting rainwater for use in the garden, and other water-reducing measures for the home.
United Utilities will also be out detecting and fixing leaks.
They can also use their pipe network to move water around, from areas of higher supply to 'top up' those with low supply.
The water company also has a drought plan, which the Environment Agency will make sure is followed.
What do the experts say?
Water regulation manager at the Environment Agency, Andy Brown, said: "Drought is a naturally occurring phenomenon. As we see more impacts from climate change heavier rainfall and drier summers will become more frequent.
"This poses an enormous challenge over the next few decades.
"Despite the rain over the weekend levels remain low and we are encouraging people to be aware of the impacts of drought as we enter the summer period.
"With further unsettled periods and rainfall over the coming weeks we will continue to closely monitor the situation and implement our Drought Plan."
A United Utilities spokesman said: "We are grateful for the support of customers, as we have seen demand reduce thanks to their efforts in saving water where they can, combined with more recent rainfall and cooler temperatures.
"Reservoirs, however, are still lower than we would expect at this time of year, and so we are continuing to move water around our integrated network to get it to where it is needed, as well as bringing extra water into the system from other sources around the region.
"Leakage is at its lowest level and we are repairing record volumes, with customers supporting us by reporting more leaks.
"We would ask that they continue to do that, as well as doing all they can to save and recycle water, to help protect their local environment."
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