Drought concerns downplayed despite 10th-driest April since records began

THE Environment Agency has downplayed concerns of drought after one of the driest Aprils on record.

The agency said it was monitoring the situation following a period of “dry weather”, but stressed that the UK was not experiencing critically low supplies.

In total, 34.7mm of rainfall was recorded last month, which is just under half the expected amount for the month as a whole (48%).

An Environment Agency spokeswoman said: “Following a dry winter, some rivers, groundwaters and reservoirs are lower than normal for the time of year. We always advise that everyone uses water wisely – especially during a period of dry weather – and to follow the advice of their water company should water-saving measures be required. The Environment Agency, water companies, businesses and farmers are working together to minimise any potential impacts to people and the environment should the dry weather continue.”

Met Office statistics show last month was the 10th-driest April since records began in 1910. It follows the driest six-month period from October to March since 1995-1996. The figures come amid concerns that low water supplies in parts of the UK could affect crops in the coming months.

In Wales last month, just 27.1mm of rain fell, 30% of the annual average. England was particularly dry, with just 19mm of rain falling in 30 days, 32% of the average.

However, Met Office forecaster Emma Sharples said: “It looks as if we’re going to see some showery outbreaks of rain spreading across the country from late Thursday.”