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Water scarcity risk rises in East of Scotland despite unsettled weather

The risk of water scarcity for areas around the rivers Don (Aberdeenshire), Tay, Earn and Clyde has also been raised to Early Warning, SEPA advised in the latest weekly report published on Thursday 1st August. ​Parts of the East, along with Kintyre, Irvine and Ayr, and the Cree area of Galloway remain at Early Warning.

While much of Scotland has experienced a relatively wet summer so far, some regions have experienced drier than average conditions. Limited rainfall over the past week, particularly across more central parts of Scotland, has meant that ground conditions and river flows have deteriorated across much of the country.

Ground conditions remain Quite Dry across much of the East and parts of the South-West. Firth of Tay and Firth of Forth areas have Dry ground conditions.

Claire Tunaley, Senior Hydrology Specialist at SEPA, said: “Although the sun may not always shine during the Scottish summer, we all know the weather can be unpredictable and we’re now seeing drier conditions across parts of the country.

“This is a crucial time of year for water demand - it’s important water users and abstractors are aware of the risk of water scarcity so we can all help reduce pressure on the water environment. We know it can be challenging for businesses that rely on the water environment to plan ahead during periods of unsettled weather, but the reality is the situation can change very quickly should we have drier than average conditions.

“We’re encouraging abstractors to monitor water usage and review best practice to prepare for these dynamic conditions, rather than waiting until levels reach a critical state. Sustainable water management not only reduces environmental impacts during dry periods but can also lead to cost savings and improved efficiency for businesses.” 

Monitoring Water Scarcity

As the authority responsible for forecasting, monitoring and reporting on the situation facing Scotland's water resources, SEPA publish a water scarcity report every week during the summer months.

The report provides information on rainfall and river flows, soil moisture deficit, and water levels in the ground and lochs, and categorises regions according to a five-tier approach, from Normal Conditions to Significant Scarcity. The overall risk of water scarcity takes several factors into account such as relevant water use, sectors in each region, and forecast weather conditions.

During drier periods, when the water environment comes under pressure, SEPA are required to balance the need for sustainable water use while protecting the environment.

SEPA will contact abstractors in the areas which have a water scarcity Alert in place by email or text message, and will provide further advice if dry conditions continue. 

Advice and Guidance

Water abstractors and irrigators in all parts of Scotland are advised to manage water wisely to minimise the need for future restrictions: 

• Read SEPA’s weekly water scarcity reports and check the Drought Risk Assessment Tool, updated daily, to keep up to date with the water situation in your area.
• Regularly check abstraction equipment to make sure it’s in good condition and fix any leaks immediately. 
• Where possible, reduce the volume and rate of your abstractions during dry periods. 
• Have a contingency plan in case restrictions or suspensions are put in place. 

Notes to Editor

• Read more information, guidance and advice on SEPA’s water scarcity page.
• Read Scotland's National Water Scarcity Plan, which explains how water resources will be managed prior to and during periods of prolonged dry weather.
• While SEPA focus on managing abstractions from Scotland’s natural water resources for agriculture and other industrial uses, Scottish Water maintains public water supply.