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SEPA warns of increasing water scarcity risk as the east coast of Scotland moves to Alert

The latest water situation, published today (1st May 2025) by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) shows the water scarcity level across the east of Scotland has been raised to Alert, meaning that pressure on rivers is building fast. Shetland has now joined most of the rest of the country at Early Warning, with only the Inner Hebrides now at normal conditions following rain over the last few days.

April continued to be a dry month with the majority of Scotland recording less rainfall than average. Parts of Aberdeenshire recorded less than a third of average April rainfall. Many areas have now experienced prolonged periods of below average rainfall; for example the Dundee area has had below average rainfall for 11 consecutive months.

Conditions are becoming increasingly dry across the country with river levels [well below/below] normal for this time of year.

River catchments now at Alert: Conon, Spey, Deveron, Ythan, Don (Aberdeenshire), Dee (Aberdeenshire), Esk, Firth of Tay, Firth of Forth, Almond, Tyne (Lothian), Tweed, Esk (Dumfriesshire), Annan, Thurso, Shin and Naver.

Eilidh Johnston, SEPA’s Senior Manager Regulation, Business and Environment, said:

"We’re seeing the early signs of water scarcity again this spring. We know from experience that these conditions can escalate quickly. Scotland’s climate is changing – rainfall is less predictable, and water isn’t always available where and when it’s needed.

“We are urging all businesses that take water from the environment – including farmers, food producers, construction and industry – to take action now to avoid problems later. We know that the demand for water peaks as we move in to summer, so it’s vital that all abstractors and water users stay informed and work together to safeguard our water resources.” 

Top tips for businesses:

•    Stay informed – read the latest Water Situation Report at www.sepa.org.uk/waterscarcity.
•    Know your water use – monitor how and where it’s used.
•    Fix leaks fast – even small ones waste a lot.
•    Cut back non-essential use – every drop counts.
•    Coordinate with others – stagger or share abstraction where possible.
•    Follow your licence conditions – they are there to protect you and the environment.

SEPA will continue publishing weekly water scarcity reports throughout the spring and summer, helping businesses stay informed and plan ahead.

Scotland’s Water Scarcity Plan sets out how SEPA works with businesses, land managers and other partners to protect the environment and manage water wisely.

Notes to Editor

Available for broadcast: Interview with Peter Wright, Unit Manager. Must be downloaded to listen to in full. Registration not required.

The National Water Scarcity Plan explains how water resources will be managed prior to and during periods of prolonged dry weather. This is to ensure the correct balance is struck between protecting the environment and providing resource for human and economic activity.

Report dry private water supplies and rivers and burns in your area to help SEPA assess water scarcity stress.

All water abstractors should be aware of the potential risk of water scarcity this summer, monitor their water use, and plan ahead for a range of weather conditions. Find further advice for abstractors and irrigators on our website.

Further support and useful links

•    In the National Water Scarcity Plan we set out how we will work with water users (authorised abstractors and recreational users) and key organisations, such as Scottish Water, to manage water resources during periods of low rainfall

•    View Significant water scarcity guidance which sets out how we will apply Scotland’s National Water Scarcity Plan (NWSP) in relation to authorised abstractions within catchments determined as being at Significant water scarcity

•    Find information on water efficiency measures at Farm Advisory Service, UK Irrigation Association, Farming & Water Scotland and NetRegs

•    View application forms page to apply to switch from river abstraction to groundwater abstraction (water scarcity)

•    View application forms page to apply for temporary abstractions (water scarcity)

•    Information on applying for new permanent abstractions