Rain has finally arrived in England and Wales — but will it end the drought?

England and Wales have just endured their driest July since records began, but rain has now started to fall across the affected regions. Despite this, reservoir levels remain what has been described as "exceptionally low," raising the question of whether the new rainfall will be enough to reverse months of drought conditions.

Expert insight

Dr Anna Murgatroyd, a lecturer in hydrology at Newcastle University, discussed the situation in a podcast interview with Madeleine Finlay. She explains how much rain would actually be needed to ensure water supplies last through until next summer, rather than offering only short-term relief.

A rising flood risk

Paradoxically, the return of rain after such a prolonged dry spell brings its own danger: an increased risk of flooding. Ground that has dried out over a long drought absorbs water far less effectively, meaning heavy rainfall can run off rapidly and cause flooding rather than steadily replenishing groundwater and reservoir stocks.

What people can do

Murgatroyd also addresses practical steps individuals and communities can take to manage water more carefully, both now and in the longer term, in order to ease pressure on water systems and reduce the impact of any future dry spells.

The situation underscores how shifting weather patterns are making water resource management increasingly difficult, requiring a balance between guarding against drought and managing the heightened risk of flooding.