Preparedness

Drought and Water Conservation

Drought and Water Conservation

Droughts occur when we experience prolonged periods of below-average rainfall. Some droughts can develop quickly during a hot, dry summer, while others build up gradually over several seasons.

When rainfall remains low, water levels in rivers, reservoirs and underground aquifers begin to fall. Plants and crops can struggle to survive, wildlife habitats can be affected, and pressure on water supplies increases. If these dry conditions continue for an extended period, a drought can develop.

What You Can Do

With reservoir levels often lower than normal during dry periods, using water wisely can make a real difference. Here are some easy ways to help:

  • Install a water butt to collect rainwater for your garden.
  • Fix leaking toilets, which can waste hundreds of litres of water every day.
  • Reuse water from rinsing vegetables or washing up to water plants.
  • Keep showers short and avoid unnecessary water use.
  • If you have a water meter, using less water can also reduce your household bills.

Saving Water Indoors

Check for Leaks, even small leaks can waste large amounts of water over time.

To check whether your home has a leak:

  1. Take a reading from your water meter.
  2. Avoid using any water for around 30 minutes.
  3. Take a second reading.

If the meter reading has changed, you may have a leak that needs attention.

Simple repairs, such as replacing worn tap washers, can prevent thousands of litres of water from being wasted each year.

In the Bathroom

The bathroom is often where most household water is used. You can reduce your usage by:

  • Taking shorter showers and choosing showers instead of baths where possible.
  • Installing a water-efficient showerhead.
  • Collecting unused shower water in a bucket for use in the garden.
  • Turning off the tap while brushing your teeth or washing your face.

In the Kitchen

Small changes in the kitchen can save a surprising amount of water:

  • Only run dishwashers when they are fully loaded.
  • Use eco or light wash programmes where available.
  • Avoid rinsing dishes before placing them in the dishwasher unless necessary.
  • Collect water while waiting for taps to run hot or cold and reuse it for plants.
  • Only run washing machines with full loads, or select the correct load size setting.

Saving Water Outdoors

Outdoor water use can increase significantly during dry weather. Consider these water-saving measures:

  • Allow lawns to brown naturally during dry periods. Most grass will recover once rainfall returns.
  • Remember that established shrubs and trees are often more drought-tolerant than we think.
  • Use a commercial car wash that recycles water rather than washing vehicles at home.
  • Install a water butt to capture rainwater for gardening and cleaning.
  • Avoid unnecessary use of treated mains water outdoors, particularly during periods of water shortage.

Further Information

For more information about the impacts of drought and practical advice on conserving water, visit the Government's guidance page: