A severe drought has been declared across six regions in southern England, affecting parts of Devon, Dorset, Cornwall, Somerset, East Sussex, and West Sussex. Several reservoirs in these areas have reached critically low levels, raising concerns about the stability of public water supplies.

Environment Secretary Angela Eagle described the situation as unprecedented in recent decades, prompting the government to increase its support and planning efforts to address the crisis. Among the hardest-hit reservoirs is Ardingly, which supplies water to approximately 95,000 people and currently holds just 19 percent of its capacity. Similarly, Wimbleball water storage has fallen to 16 percent full.

In response to the drought, government officials have directed water companies to conduct daily monitoring of reservoir and river levels as well as water quality. These measures aim to manage resources carefully and ensure that supply disruptions are minimized.

The declaration highlights the growing challenges posed by changing weather patterns and prolonged dry periods in southern England. While authorities continue to assess the situation and implement preventive steps, residents in the affected areas are being advised to conserve water and remain alert to any updates regarding supply status.