Why rivers and reservoirs across England are drying up

By Isobel Williams

Rivers and reservoirs are running dry across England after weeks of hot weather — but forecasters say rain is on the way.

Several bodies of water across the country are starting to see the impact of the persistently high temperatures — with decreased supplies and dried ground surrounding them.

Images from Howden Reservoir in the Peak District as well as Lockwood Reservoir and the River Lea in London show completely dry patches where water should be flowing.

This comes as Thames Water has put in a temporary hosepipe ban to maintain supplies due to low rainfall, high demand, and hot weather.

Customers are not allowed to water their gardens, fill wading pools or swimming pools, use a sprinkler, or clean any outdoor areas in the meantime.

The Met Office predicts the dry conditions will get some relief on Saturday with light rain predicted in the north and west.

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This week, Steve Willington, a Met Office chief forecaster, said: “The high pressure has been a key feature of the UK’s weather forecast over the last few weeks, bringing above-average temperatures and extremely dry conditions for many.

"However, we will begin to see a modest change as a weak weather front pushes south across the UK on Saturday bringing some much-needed rain, albeit light and mainly concentrated in the north and west.”

Greg Wolverson, a deputy chief forecaster, added: “Fresher conditions will prevail from Sunday onward, but temperatures will remain around average for the time of year.

“Although there is a return to rain in the forecast, we have just come out of an exceptionally dry spell and the forecast rain is unlikely to be widespread or substantial.

"Many areas are likely to continue experiencing prevailing dry conditions for the foreseeable future, especially in southern England.”

People are advised to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun during the hottest part of the day, and check on vulnerable people as the hot weather continues.