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Dry weather prompts reminder for abstractors to plan ahead

Wetter winter conditions improved water resource conditions compared to mid-May 2025, when a number of areas had already reached Moderate Scarcity. However, recent dry weather is a reminder that conditions can change quickly depending on rainfall and that planning ahead remains important. 

The latest weekly water scarcity report shows the Ythan catchment has moved to Alert status, with a number of other areas across the North East, central Scotland, south west and islands currently at Early Warning. 

Rainfall in March was particularly low in parts of northern Aberdeenshire, with some areas receiving less than half of the long-term monthly average. While April rainfall was closer to normal levels, May has so far seen little significant rainfall in the area. 

River flows are generally low for the time of year across the North East and parts of central Scotland, with more normal flows in the west. Soil moisture levels are quite dry across much of the country and dry in parts of Aberdeenshire. Groundwater levels remain largely normal nationally, although some monitoring locations in Fife and Angus are recording very low levels. 

Eilidh Johnston, Senior Leader in Compliance, said: 

“Many abstractors, particularly farmers and growers, will already be aware of the dry conditions developing in some areas and the pressures this can place on water resources. 

“We are not currently seeing the same level of water scarcity pressures as this time last year, when a number of areas had already reached Moderate Scarcity. However, last year demonstrated how quickly conditions can change depending on rainfall and why planning ahead is so important. 

“Taking steps early, such as reviewing equipment, contingency plans and water efficiency measures, can help improve resilience if dry weather continues later in the season. 

“We encourage abstractors to regularly monitor local conditions using our DRAT tool and to engage with SEPA early if they have concerns about managing water use during prolonged dry conditions.” 

SEPA’s Drought Risk Assessment Tool (DRAT) provides up-to-date local information on river flows and potential water scarcity risks to help abstractors monitor conditions and support planning ahead. 

Full details of all affected areas, along with the latest water scarcity report, DRAT tool, river level information and rainfall data, are available on SEPA’s website.

Notes to editors

Water scarcity levels

• Early Warning: Conditions are drying. No action required, but abstractors should start preparing.
• Alert: Water levels are falling. SEPA advises voluntary reductions in non-essential water use for abstractors.
• Moderate Scarcity: Environmental impact is clear. Action from abstractors is expected to protect rivers and the species that rely on them.
• Significant Scarcity: Critical river levels. Restrictions on abstraction licences may be imposed.

Data sources

• SEPA water scarcity situation report - SEPA water scarcity situation report 14th May 2026
• SEPA’s river level network - Find Scottish water levels information
• Rainfall data for Scotland - Scottish Rainfall Data
• DRAT - Water scarcity data - provided by Scottish Environment Protection Agency

Further support and useful links

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.