By Tilly Walder
An official drought was declared, across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, on Wednesday, after weeks of extreme heat and almost no rainfall, pushing water resources into critical condition – even as Southern Water continues to lose 89.8 million litres of treated drinking water every single day through leaks across its network. Islanders remain under a hosepipe ban, while vast quantities of clean water escape the system.
The Environment Agency confirmed the region has moved from “prolonged dry weather” into drought, following a rapid deterioration in conditions. July is on course to become the driest on record in southern England, with some areas receiving just one per cent of their average monthly rainfall. Despite an exceptionally wet winter, record-breaking temperatures and almost no rain have triggered a sharp drought, where conditions worsen far more quickly than usual.
A drought is declared when water is being used faster than nature can replenish it. The Environment Agency moves through five stages: normal conditions, prolonged dry weather, drought, severe drought, and recovering drought. This week’s declaration allows regulators and water companies to introduce further measures to protect supplies and vulnerable habitats, as conditions deteriorate.
The Island is already feeling the strain. ‘Temporary Use Bans’ (hosepipe bans) remain in place, rivers, and groundwater levels have dropped sharply, and repeated heatwaves – including temperatures reaching 38°C (100.4°F) – have increased pressure on agriculture, wildlife, and water supplies. Dry vegetation has also heightened wildfire risk, with firefighters tackling several significant blazes in recent weeks, including the major fire at Headon Warren.
Richard O’Callaghan, environmental manager for the Environment Agency’s Solent and South Downs area, said: “Environmental pressures have only grown in response to high water demand and low rainfall.” He said the agency would continue balancing environmental needs with public water supplies, while ensuring water companies followed their drought action plans.
Water minister, Emma Hardy, said climate change means droughts are becoming increasingly common, and warned water companies they must do more to reduce leaks, improve resilience, and protect essential water supplies for the future.
At a meeting of the Environment and Community Protection Committee (ECPC) last night (Thursday), councillors approved restrictions on disposable barbecues and the release of sky lanterns and balloons on IW Council‑owned land. Those who ignore the rules will receive fixed penalty notices.
Help prevent countryside fires
With the ground extremely dry, the risk of fires is much higher than normal. Residents and visitors are urged to take extra care by:
– Never discarding cigarettes or matches on the ground.
– Taking all litter home, especially glass bottles, which can intensify the sun’s rays.
– Never leaving camp-fires unattended, and ensuring they are fully extinguished.
– Reporting any sign of fire immediately by calling 999, and giving the exact location.
– Respecting any countryside access restrictions or safety advice issued by the authorities.
Isle of Wight Observer